2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 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 2,435 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 259 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 2 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
