2008 Mazda 6 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,327 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (138 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 54 kg more than 2008 Mazda 6.
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, 2003 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 6. (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 6. 2003 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 6 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2327 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1384 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 62 L |
