1979 Mazda Montrose vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda Montrose. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda Montrose would be higher. At 2,523 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1979 Mazda Montrose. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda Montrose. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1979 Mazda Montrose. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda Montrose 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 Montrose. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40, 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 S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda Montrose. (153 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda Montrose.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda Montrose | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | Montrose | S40 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2523 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
