1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 1989 Volvo 460 is newer by 4 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 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 460 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 460 (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (72 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 460 weights approximately 77 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Volvo 460 (132 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 460 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | 460 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 977 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1680 mm |
