2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 253 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3.
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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2670 mm |
