1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1980 Volvo 265
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 265 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 265 weights approximately 361 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Volvo 265 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 265. 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, 1980 Volvo 265 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 265 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 | 1980 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-3 | 265 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2660 mm |
