2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 345 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.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 3 | V50 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2442 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1465 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |