2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 850 (225 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 850 weights approximately 58 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 850, 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, 1993 Volvo 850 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1993 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 73 L |
