2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1974 Volvo 140
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 140 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 140 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 140. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 140.
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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 140. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 140.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1974 Volvo 140 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | 140 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
