2003 Volvo V50 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. 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 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo V50 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | V50 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2442 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 64 L |
