1978 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle 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 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 2400 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 170 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 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle 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 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda RX-7 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-7 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |