1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volvo 240 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323.
Because 1983 Volvo 240 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 1983 Volvo 240. 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volvo 240. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1983 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1983 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 323 | 240 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2660 mm |