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 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 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. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 12 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 | 148 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
