1991 Mazda 323 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 1991 Mazda 323 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 260 (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1991 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volvo 260 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 1980 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Mazda 323, 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, 1980 Volvo 260 (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 323 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | 260 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2660 mm |
