1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2005 Mazda 6
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 24 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, 2005 Mazda 6 (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 370 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, 2005 Mazda 6, 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, 2005 Mazda 6 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 6 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 | 2005 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 64 L |
