1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1968 Volvo 120
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (161 HP) has 94 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1968 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (216 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1968 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2610 mm |
