2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V50 weights approximately 316 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
