2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1971 Volvo 145
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 145 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 86 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 145. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1971 Volvo 145. 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 1971 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | 145 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
