2007 Mazda 3 vs. 1989 Volvo 244
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 244. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 244 weights approximately 116 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3.
Because 1989 Volvo 244 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 1989 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 244. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 244.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 1989 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 244 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
