2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 620 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2012 Volvo XC70 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Volvo XC70 (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2012 Volvo XC70 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. 2012 Volvo XC70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4838 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1604 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2815 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
