1987 Mazda 626 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1987 Mazda 626. 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626. 2004 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1987 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1987 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 626 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 626 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
