1980 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1980 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (125 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1980 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Mazda RX-7 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | RX-7 | 850 |
Year Released | 1980 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1335 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 58 L |