2007 Mazda 6 vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2007 Mazda 6 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,968 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 6 (212 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 260 weights approximately 554 kg more than 2007 Mazda 6.
Because 1981 Volvo 260 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 1981 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 6, 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 6 (267 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 6 | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 6 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2968 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 816 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2660 mm |
