1986 Ford Fiesta vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1986 Ford Fiesta is newer by 5 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 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1986 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1986 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1986 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Fiesta | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2430 mm |
