2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volvo V50 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 140 more horse power than 2008 Volvo V50. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2008 Volvo V50. 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 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo V50. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
