2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Volvo S60
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volvo S60. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volvo S60 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S60 (257 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S60 weights approximately 419 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, 2005 Volvo S60, 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, 2005 Volvo S60 (350 Nm) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2005 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S60 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1539 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
