2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
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 S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (161 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 331 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
