1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC90 is newer by 10 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo XC90 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1093 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.
Because 2008 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2008 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 2198 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
