1997 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1997 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 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 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | RX-7 | V50 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2524 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2720 mm |