2006 Mazda 2 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2006 Mazda 2 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,731 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V40 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V40 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2006 Mazda 2. 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, 1996 Volvo V40 (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo V40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 2 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 2 | V40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
