2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1994 Volvo 480
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1994 Volvo 480. 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1994 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
