2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1976 Volvo 265
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 10 kg more than 1976 Volvo 265. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1976 Volvo 265 (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1976 Volvo 265 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1976 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 265 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2660 mm |
