1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2011 Ford Edge
To start off, 2011 Ford Edge is newer by 30 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Edge is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Edge (305 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Edge should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Edge weights approximately 886 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, 2011 Ford Edge, 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, 2011 Ford Edge (379 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Edge will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7. 2011 Ford Edge has automatic transmission and 1981 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1981 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Edge will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda RX-7 | 2011 Ford Edge | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | RX-7 | Edge |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1946 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4679 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1702 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2824 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
