1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1971 Volvo 145
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volvo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 145. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volvo 145 weights approximately 231 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Because 1971 Volvo 145 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 1971 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1971 Volvo 145 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1971 Volvo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 1971 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-3 | 145 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2620 mm |
