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Mazda MAZDASPEED3 vs. Volvo V50 Review

How the Mazda MAZDASPEED3 stacks up against the Volvo V50 - by Nigel Cooper, Topanga CA

2010 Mazda MAZDASPEED3
Price Range: $22,740 - $24,455
2010 Volvo V50
Price Range: $28,700 - $35,500
Mazda MAZDASPEED3 vs. Volvo V50 Review

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. The MAZDASPEED MAZDA3 is substantially cheaper to get to the dealership than the V50. As far as MSRP, the Mazda costs significantly less than the Volvo V50. Regarding out-the-door price, the Mazda MAZDASPEED MAZDA3 costs significantly less than the Volvo V50.

Utility
Neither the Mazda MAZDASPEED MAZDA3 nor the Volvo V50 has a marked advantage in terms of seating capacity.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the Mazda MAZDASPEED MAZDA3 offers a bit more head room than the Volvo V50, there honestly isn't much of a difference. The ampler interior dimensions of the Mazda MAZDASPEED MAZDA3 make it substantially roomier for your passengers than the Volvo V50.

Dimensions
The V50 is slightly more ponderous than the MAZDASPEED MAZDA3. The Mazda MAZDASPEED MAZDA3's tank is about the same size as the Volvo V50's, though the Volvo V50's is a little larger. The Mazda MAZDASPEED MAZDA3 and the Volvo V50 compete for the same parking spaces.

Handling
The Mazda MAZDASPEED MAZDA3 and the Volvo V50 have about similar tires. With their similar turning circles, the Volvo V50 and the Mazda MAZDASPEED MAZDA3 likely handle about the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Mazda MAZDASPEED MAZDA3's engine is a bit smaller than the Volvo V50's, but not terribly so. Torque equals pickup, and the Mazda MAZDASPEED MAZDA3 will have picked up and gone by the time the V50 finally gets moving.

Overview
The basic after-sale protection that comes with the Mazda MAZDASPEED MAZDA3 isn't quite as generous as the Volvo V50's.

Other
The MAZDASPEED MAZDA3 emits fewer smog-forming pollutants per 15,000 miles than the Volvo V50.

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