1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1991 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1991 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 10 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 2,616 cc, 1991 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 582 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 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, 1991 Mazda RX-7 (270 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1991 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 | 1991 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 75 L |
