2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 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 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (124 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70.
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, 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volvo S70 has manual transmission. 1997 Volvo S70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | S70 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
