2004 Mazda 6 vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 26 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 2,964 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 109 kg more than 1978 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 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, 2004 Mazda 6 (260 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 265. (218 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 6 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2964 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1513 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
