2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Volvo C70
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo C70 (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo C70 weights approximately 278 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo C70, 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, 1998 Volvo C70 (270 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 1998 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | C70 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 68 L |
