2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1993 Volvo 850
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1993 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1993 Volvo 850. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1993 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 850 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
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, 1993 Volvo 850, 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volvo 850. (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1993 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
