2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2013 Volvo C30

To start off, 2013 Volvo C30 is newer by 10 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2013 Volvo C30. (224 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo C30 weights approximately 32 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, 2013 Volvo C30, 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, 2013 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo C30 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 2013 Volvo C30
Make Mazda Volvo
Model RX-8 C30
Year Released 2003 2013
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1308 cc 2500 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 224 HP
Engine RPM 8200 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 211 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Top Speed 235 km/hour 240 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.7 seconds 6.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1425 kg 1457 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4266 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 2039 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1447 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2640 mm