2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 240 (106 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240.
Because 1981 Volvo 240 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 1981 Volvo 240. 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, 1981 Volvo 240 (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda 3 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 3 | 240 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |