2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Volvo C70
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo C70 (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo C70 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2008 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, 1998 Volvo C70 (270 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 1998 Volvo C70 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volvo C70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1998 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | C70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
