1976 Volvo 260 vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 260. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 368 kg more than 1976 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Volvo 260 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 1976 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7, 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 CX-7 (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 260. 2012 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 1976 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1976 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volvo 260 | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | 260 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1718 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2751 mm |
