1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 30 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 3,192 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (235 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 411 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.
Because 2008 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda 626. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 2008 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 626 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |
