1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 389 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.
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 S40 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
