2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 3 | 850 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 360 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 77 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1335 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |