1983 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1983 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1983 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (321 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mazda RX-7 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-7 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
