2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1956 Volvo 120
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1956 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1956 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 397 kg more than 1956 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volvo 120. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 1956 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
