1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 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 16 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S80. (222 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
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, 1998 Volvo S80, 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (311 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-7 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 80 L |
