1974 Volvo 244 vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 5 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 244. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 81 kg more than 1974 Volvo 244. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 1974 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 5, 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, 2012 Mazda 5 (191 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 244. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volvo 244 | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | 244 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2127 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
