1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Volvo S80
To start off, 2011 Volvo S80 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP) has 24 more horse power than 2011 Volvo S80. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2011 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S80 weights approximately 584 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S80, 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, 2011 Volvo S80 (270 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm). This means 2011 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2011 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | S80 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 67 L |
