2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2010 Volvo C30
To start off, 2010 Volvo C30 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo C30 weights approximately 309 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Volvo C30, 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, 2010 Volvo C30 (320 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 2010 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2010 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | C30 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
