1972 Volvo 1800 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 1800. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volvo 1800 weights approximately 104 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
Because 1972 Volvo 1800 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 Volvo 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Volvo 1800 (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Volvo 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Volvo 1800 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | 1800 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2650 mm |
