2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 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 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 208 kg more than 2009 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1984 cc |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
