1998 Volvo S80 vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (222 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 257 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 1978 Mazda 626. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80, 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 Volvo S80 (311 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 1978 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 1998 Volvo S80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mazda 626 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Volvo S80 | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Volvo | Mazda |
Model | S80 | 626 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 222 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 311 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1427 kg | 1170 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |