2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2006 Volvo V50. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 246 kg more than 2006 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50, 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (220 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | V50 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2650 mm |
