1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 20 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 723 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (107 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2005 Volvo S80 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. 2005 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1689 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
