2005 Mazda Marathon vs. 1991 Volvo 850
To start off, 2005 Mazda Marathon is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 850 (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Marathon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Marathon weights approximately 147 kg more than 1991 Volvo 850.
Because 2005 Mazda Marathon 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 2005 Mazda Marathon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 850, 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, 1991 Volvo 850 (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda Marathon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda Marathon | 1991 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | Marathon | 850 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1991 |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2434 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 10 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1517 kg | 1370 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 58 L |
