2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2013 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2013 Volvo XC90 is newer by 4 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo XC90 (237 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1012 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 Volvo XC90, 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, 2013 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo XC90 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 | 2013 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-8 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 2137 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4807 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1936 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1784 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2857 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
