1973 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volvo 480 weights approximately 148 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mazda RX-3 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 1973 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, 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, 1988 Volvo 480 (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda RX-3 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2510 mm |
