2002 Mazda MPV vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2002 Mazda MPV is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MPV. (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda MPV weights approximately 294 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260.
Because 1979 Volvo 260 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MPV, 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MPV. (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MPV.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda MPV | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MPV | 260 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1644 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2660 mm |
