1978 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2011 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac DTS is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 758 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac DTS, 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 Cadillac DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7. 2011 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-7 | 2011 Cadillac DTS | |
| Make | Mazda | Cadillac |
| Model | RX-7 | DTS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1818 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5273 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2936 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
