1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 1997 Mazda 626 is newer by 16 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 626 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
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, 1997 Mazda 626, 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, both vehicles can yield 145 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda RX-7 | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
