2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (238 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 265 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
