1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 17 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 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (134 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 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 1989 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40, 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
