1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,316 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volvo 240 (112 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volvo 240 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Volvo 240 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 1983 Volvo 240. 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, 1983 Volvo 240 (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1983 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 323 | 240 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2316 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 112 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 103 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 96 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 80 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2660 mm |