2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,848 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 178 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 260. 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, 1980 Volvo 260 (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2848 cc |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
