2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 460 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 283 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (132 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 460 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 977 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
