2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V40 weights approximately 39 kg more than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40, 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | V40 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2570 mm |
