1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 262 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, 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 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-7 | 480 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |
