2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1959 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Volvo 120 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 1959 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1581 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
