1978 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2008 Volvo V70
To start off, 2008 Volvo V70 is newer by 30 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V70 (138 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V70 weights approximately 509 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, 2008 Volvo V70, 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, 2008 Volvo V70 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7. 2008 Volvo V70 has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo V70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-7 | 2008 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-7 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
