2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1985 Volvo 245
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1985 Volvo 245. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volvo 245.
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 1985 Volvo 245. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 1985 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | 245 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |
