2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1975 Volvo 240
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1975 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 240.
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, 1975 Volvo 240 (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1975 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1975 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
