1997 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 183 kg more than 1997 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda RX-7 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-7 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2670 mm |
