2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 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 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | RX-8 | S40 |
Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 2401 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 218 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 321 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1435 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 Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |