2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 233 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2521 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
