1996 Volvo 850 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volvo 850 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Volvo | Mazda |
Model | 850 | 3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2461 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 290 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1493 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2639 mm |