1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 Volvo V50 is newer by 20 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
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, 2009 Volvo V50 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2009 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
