2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volvo 240 weights approximately 143 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volvo 240. (157 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 240 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2660 mm |
