1970 Honda Z vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Honda Z would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1970 Honda Z. (37 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1970 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 785 kg more than 1970 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mazda RX-7 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 1997 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Honda Z, 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, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Honda Z. (45 Nm @ 7000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Honda Z | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Z | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 599 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 525 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2430 mm |
