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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (247 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) 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 457 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 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 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.
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 | 1496 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
