1981 Ferrari 512 BBi vs. 1996 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi would be higher. At 4,942 cc, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (340 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (238 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi weights approximately 189 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi (451 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ferrari 512 BBi | 1996 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | 512 BBi | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2616 cc |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1499 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 55 L |
