1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Volvo C30
To start off, 2011 Volvo C30 is newer by 22 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo C30 (227 HP) has 153 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo C30 weights approximately 466 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 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, 2011 Volvo C30, 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, 2011 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2011 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 227 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4265 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
