2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 302 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 850 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 159 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 290 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1457 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2670 mm |