2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S60. (167 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 111 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60, 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, 2004 Volvo S60 (225 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | S60 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2615 cc | 2433 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
