1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2008 Volvo V70
To start off, 2008 Volvo V70 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V70 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V70 weights approximately 439 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 1978 Mazda 626 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 1978 Mazda 626. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V70, 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, 2008 Volvo V70 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 2008 Volvo V70 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 V70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2008 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 626 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
