1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,581 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Volvo 120 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1959 Volvo 120 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1959 Volvo 120 (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1959 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 323 | 120 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1581 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 103 Nm | 115 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 79.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 80 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4460 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2610 mm |