2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1983 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4650 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volvo 240 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1983 Volvo 240 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 1983 Volvo 240. 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 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volvo 240. (139 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2315 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4650 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
