2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1993 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1993 Volvo 480.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volvo 480. (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1993 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
