2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 260. (153 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volvo 260 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
