1996 Volvo V40 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 V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 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 63 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 143 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volvo V40 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | V40 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2639 mm |
