2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
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 V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V50 weights approximately 288 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 V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 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 V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2521 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.7 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
