1981 Mazda 323 vs. 1977 Volvo 265
To start off, 1981 Mazda 323 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Volvo 265 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volvo 265 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1977 Volvo 265 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Volvo 265 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 1977 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | 265 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2660 mm |
