2005 Volvo S80 vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,917 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 447 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 1978 Mazda 626. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80, 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volvo S80 | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | S80 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2917 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
