1984 Volvo 740 vs. 2012 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,316 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 6 (127 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1984 Volvo 740. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 6 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1984 Volvo 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Volvo 740 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 1984 Volvo 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 6, 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, 2012 Mazda 6 (340 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volvo 740. (186 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volvo 740. 2012 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1984 Volvo 740 has manual transmission. 1984 Volvo 740 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volvo 740 | 2012 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | 740 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2316 cc | 2183 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2789 mm |
