2004 Mazda 2 vs. 1977 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,662 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 2 weights approximately 438 kg more than 1977 Volvo 260.
Because 1977 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 1977 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1977 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 2 | 1977 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 2 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2660 mm |
