1981 Volvo 260 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 153 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 8 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260.
Because 1981 Volvo 260 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 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3, 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 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 260 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | 260 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2640 mm |
