1997 Volvo C70 vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Volvo C70. (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo C70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo C70 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2010 Mazda RX-8 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo C70, 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, 1997 Volvo C70 (270 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volvo C70 | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | C70 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 64 L |
