1987 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1980 Volvo 343
To start off, 1987 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1987 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1987 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda RX-7 | 1980 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-7 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1400 mm |
