1978 Mazda 818 vs. 2006 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Volvo S80 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 2,520 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S80 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S80 weights approximately 576 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80, 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, 2006 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 818 | 2006 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 818 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1576 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2800 mm |
