2006 Volvo S40 vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S40 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volvo S40 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volvo S40 | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | S40 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1433 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.1 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 64 L |
