2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2007 Volvo S40. (218 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 26 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, 2007 Volvo S40, 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 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 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 62 L |
