2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,783 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (150 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3.
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, 1998 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2783 cc |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.7 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.4 L/100km | 16.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 10.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
