1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1974 Volvo 245
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 2,125 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 245 (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 245 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 245 weights approximately 434 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 245 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 1974 Volvo 245. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323, 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, 1974 Volvo 245 (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Volvo 245 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 1974 Volvo 245 has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 245 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Mazda 323 | 1974 Volvo 245 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 323 | 245 |
Year Released | 1985 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1720 cc | 2125 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 56 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1394 kg |