1997 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1975 Volvo 260
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Volvo 260 weights approximately 291 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1975 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1975 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-3. 1975 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda MX-3 | 1975 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | MX-3 | 260 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1975 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2660 mm |