2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1980 Volvo 265
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 265. (82 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 265 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1980 Volvo 265 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 1980 Volvo 265. 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, both vehicles can yield 145 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1980 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
