2003 Volvo C70 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo C70 (242 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo C70 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. 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, 2003 Volvo C70 (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo C70 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo C70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo C70 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | C70 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2319 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.7 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
