2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Volvo 265
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 265. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 265 weights approximately 275 kg more than 2005 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, 1981 Volvo 265 (230 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 1981 Volvo 265 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 265 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2660 mm |
