1983 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 30 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1983 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 341 kg more than 1983 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mazda RX-7. 2013 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1983 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1983 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mazda RX-7 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
