2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Volvo 740
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,315 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 155 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 299 kg more than 1989 Volvo 740.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Volvo 740 (203 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 1989 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 740 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 155 HP |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1372 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2780 mm |
