2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Volvo V70
To start off, 2011 Volvo V70 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,192 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo V70 (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo V70 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volvo V70. (236 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volvo V70. 2011 Volvo V70 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volvo V70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2011 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V70 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
