1980 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2006 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2006 Nissan Frontier is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Frontier (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 470 kg more than 1980 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Frontier, 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, 2006 Nissan Frontier (385 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mazda RX-7 | 2006 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-7 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
