2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Volvo 164
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 164 (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 164 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 1978 Volvo 164 (204 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1978 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3350 mm |
