2005 Volvo S60 vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volvo S60. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volvo S60 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2005 Volvo S60. (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo S60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S60 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60, 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 Volvo S60 (331 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volvo S60 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | S60 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
