1984 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1966 Saab 96
To start off, 1984 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Saab 96. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Saab 96 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1984 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1966 Saab 96. (64 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1966 Saab 96. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 187 kg more than 1966 Saab 96. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Saab 96, 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, 1984 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Saab 96. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1984 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Saab 96.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mazda RX-7 | 1966 Saab 96 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-7 | 96 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 873 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 38 L |
