1979 Mazda 929 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1979 Mazda 929. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1979 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda 929. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 929 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 929 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
