2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1984 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1984 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 138 kg more than 1984 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1984 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
