2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 335 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Volvo S80, 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 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 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | S80 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
