2005 Mazda 6 vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 6 (119 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. 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, 2005 Mazda 6 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 6 | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 6 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2560 mm |
