1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1988 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 323 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
