2003 Volvo S40 vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2010 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo S40 | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | S40 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
