2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Volvo 264
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 264. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 264 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 264 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 264 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 264 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 264 weights approximately 327 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 264 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 Volvo 264. 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, 1978 Volvo 264 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 264 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 264 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 264 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
