1978 Mazda 626 vs. 1991 Volvo 240
To start off, 1991 Volvo 240 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 240 (96 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volvo 240 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1991 Volvo 240 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 1991 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 626 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
