1983 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (91 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 170 kg more than 1983 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1983 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 1983 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mazda RX-7 | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
