1981 Mazda 323 vs. 1985 Volvo 780
To start off, 1985 Volvo 780 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Volvo 780 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volvo 780 (145 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volvo 780 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volvo 780 weights approximately 570 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, 1985 Volvo 780 (236 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Volvo 780 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 1985 Volvo 780 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | 780 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2780 mm |
