1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (256 HP) has 182 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 278 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 2004 Volvo S60 (340 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2004 Volvo S60 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 256 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
