2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1992 Volvo 850
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1992 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1992 Volvo 850. (167 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1992 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Volvo 850 weights approximately 311 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Volvo 850, 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, 1992 Volvo 850 (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1992 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1992 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
