1996 Volvo S40 vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40, 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo S40 | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | S40 | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 48 L |
