2002 Mazda 2 vs. 1969 Volvo 120
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Volvo 120 (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (66 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Volvo 120 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 2 weights approximately 146 kg more than 1969 Volvo 120.
Because 1969 Volvo 120 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 1969 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 2, 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, 1969 Volvo 120 (167 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1969 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 2 | 1969 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 2 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
