1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1986 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1986 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,354 cc, 1986 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mazda RX-7 (185 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1986 Mazda RX-7 (246 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1986 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 1986 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 2354 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2430 mm |
