1991 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1991 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 73 kg more than 1991 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1991 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 1991 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 (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda RX-7. (270 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda RX-7. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1991 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1991 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda RX-7 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-7 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |
