2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (138 HP) has 57 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 319 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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 S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (141 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 2 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |
