2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 960 (187 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 248 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volvo 960 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 1990 Volvo 960. 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, 1990 Volvo 960 (263 Nm) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 1990 Volvo 960 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
