1996 Mazda 626 vs. 2006 Volvo S60
To start off, 2006 Volvo S60 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S60 (177 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 1008 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. 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, 2006 Volvo S60 (240 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm). This means 2006 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626. 2006 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 626 | 2006 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 626 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 2198 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
