2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1992 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volvo 480 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 45 more horse power than 1992 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 123 kg more than 1992 Volvo 480. 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 (204 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1992 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1721 cc |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
