2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Volvo V50
To start off, 2007 Volvo V50 is newer by 3 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 21 more horse power than 2007 Volvo V50. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo V50 weights approximately 33 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, 2007 Volvo V50, 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, 2007 Volvo V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo V50 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 | 2007 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
