1985 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 1383 kg more than 1985 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mazda RX-7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 will offer significantly more control. 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 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda RX-7. 2011 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda RX-7 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | RX-7 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 2295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3071 mm |
