2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 334 kg more than 2012 Volvo C30.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30, 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, 2012 Volvo C30 (320 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (230 Nm). This means 2012 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | C30 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2639 mm |
