2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1965 Volvo 122
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Volvo 122. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Volvo 122 would be higher. At 1,782 cc (4 cylinders), 1965 Volvo 122 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1965 Volvo 122. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1965 Volvo 122. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 148 kg more than 1965 Volvo 122. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Volvo 122 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 1965 Volvo 122. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Volvo 122. (140 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Volvo 122.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1965 Volvo 122 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 122 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1782 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1092 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
