2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (207 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 13 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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 V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8. 2003 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 62 L |
