2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Volvo C70
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2003 Volvo C70. (160 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2003 Volvo C70. 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 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo C70. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo C70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | C70 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
