2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (162 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (221 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70. 1997 Volvo S70 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volvo S70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
