1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP) has 51 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda RX-7 | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
