1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40, 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 S40 (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda RX-7 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | RX-7 | S40 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1798 cc |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 191 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1355 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |