2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2011 Volvo C30
To start off, 2011 Volvo C30 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2011 Volvo C30. (227 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo C30 weights approximately 28 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, 2011 Volvo C30, 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, 2011 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2011 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | C30 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1453 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4265 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
