1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 276 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
