2006 Volvo V50 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,345 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2013 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 Volvo V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3. 2006 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 2013 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2013 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo V50 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | V50 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2345 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
