2005 Mazda Marathon vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Mazda Marathon is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Marathon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Marathon weights approximately 79 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50.
Because 2005 Mazda Marathon 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 2005 Mazda Marathon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda Marathon. 2003 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda Marathon has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda Marathon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda Marathon | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | Marathon | V50 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Van | Station Wagon |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2435 cc |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 10 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1517 kg | 1438 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 62 L |
