2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
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 V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 128 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 V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2003 Volvo V50 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. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
