2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC70 is newer by 6 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC70 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 723 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.
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, 2011 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 2011 Volvo XC70 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo XC70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2011 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1808 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4839 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1603 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2814 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
