2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1972 Volvo 1800
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 1800. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volvo 1800 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo 1800. (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1972 Volvo 1800 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
