2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S70 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (162 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (221 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.2 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
