1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 1986 Volvo 242 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 242 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volvo 242 (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volvo 242 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 242 weights approximately 408 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 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. 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, 1986 Volvo 242 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Volvo 242 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Mazda 323 | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 323 | 242 |
Year Released | 1985 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 117 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2660 mm |