1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1997 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 1997 Nissan Sentra 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 19 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 94 kg more than 1997 Nissan Sentra. 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, 1997 Nissan Sentra, 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda RX-7 | 1997 Nissan Sentra | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | RX-7 | Sentra |
Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1392 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 118 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 966 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2440 mm |