2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1980 Volvo 265
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 265. (82 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 265 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 265. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 265. (145 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1980 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
