1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1977 Volvo 260
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,662 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volvo 260 weights approximately 410 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 1977 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 1977 Volvo 260. 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, 1977 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1977 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Mazda 323 | 1977 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 323 | 260 |
Year Released | 1985 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2662 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |