2006 Volvo S40 vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 158 kg more than 2010 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3. 2010 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2006 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2006 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S40 | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | S40 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1458 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
