2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1976 Volvo 260
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 260. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volvo 260 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 260. 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, 1976 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1976 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 1976 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 3 | 260 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2664 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 73 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |