1996 Mazda MPV vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MPV. (114 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MPV weights approximately 311 kg more than 2005 Volvo V50.
Because 1996 Mazda MPV 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 1996 Mazda MPV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50, 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MPV. (277 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MPV. 2005 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MPV has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MPV will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda MPV | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MPV | V50 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2318 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2800 mm |
