2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volvo S80 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 51 more horse power than 2001 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volvo S80 weights approximately 98 kg more than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2001 Volvo S80, 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2001 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
