2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 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 55 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S80. (134 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 138 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, 2005 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. 2005 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. 2005 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| 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 | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
