2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1975 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Volvo 260 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1975 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1975 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda 3 | 1975 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 3 | 260 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1975 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 146 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2660 mm |