1990 Mazda 323 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (178 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 659 kg more than 1990 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
