2008 Mazda 5 vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2008 Mazda 5 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 260 (146 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 5. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 5 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 5, 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 5. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 5 | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 5 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2660 mm |
