2004 Volvo S60 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo S60. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo S60 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (247 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 183 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, 2004 Volvo S60 (330 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volvo S60 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | S60 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1566 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
