1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,210 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (108 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (66 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda Cosmo weights approximately 195 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, 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, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (142 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | Cosmo | 480 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2210 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
