1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 22 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 340 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda RX-7 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
