2006 Volvo S60 vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volvo S60. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volvo S60 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S60. (162 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 500 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S60 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S60 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | S60 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 48 L |
