1978 Mazda 929 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 929. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 288 kg more than 1978 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 929 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 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 929. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 929 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 929 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
