2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1984 Volvo 740
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,316 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1984 Volvo 740. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Volvo 740 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1984 Volvo 740 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 1984 Volvo 740. 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 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volvo 740. (186 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volvo 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1984 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2780 mm |
