1995 Volvo 850 vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1995 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1995 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Volvo 850 weights approximately 214 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850, 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Volvo 850 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | 850 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2329 mm |
