1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1966 Volvo 144
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volvo 144. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volvo 144 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Volvo 144 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Volvo 144 (124 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Volvo 144 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Volvo 144 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Volvo 144 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 1966 Volvo 144. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1966 Volvo 144 (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1966 Volvo 144 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1966 Volvo 144 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | 144 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
