2003 Mazda 6 vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 265 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (144 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 81 kg more than 1978 Volvo 265.
Because 1978 Volvo 265 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 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6, 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, 2003 Mazda 6 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 6 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
