1978 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (222 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 367 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (311 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-7 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-7 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
