2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1991 Volvo 440
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 440 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volvo 440 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 440 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1991 Volvo 440.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 440, 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, both vehicles can yield 140 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1991 Volvo 440 has manual transmission. 1991 Volvo 440 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1991 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
