2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC90 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC90 (200 HP) has 96 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 910 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.
Because 2011 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Volvo XC90 (420 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2011 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1245 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
