2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Volvo V90
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V90 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V90 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V90 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V90 weights approximately 407 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Volvo V90 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 1996 Volvo V90. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 1996 Volvo V90 (261 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 1996 Volvo V90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1996 Volvo V90 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V90 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 261 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
