2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S40. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40, 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 5.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
