2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1975 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Volvo 240 weights approximately 530 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1975 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 1975 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 240. (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1975 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1986 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
