2007 Volvo C30 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Volvo C30 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo C30 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo C30 weights approximately 188 kg more than 2003 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, 2007 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2003 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2007 Volvo C30 has manual transmission. 2007 Volvo C30 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volvo C30 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | C30 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
