2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2005 Volvo V50. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo V50.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (245 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | V50 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
