1986 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,354 cc, 1986 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mazda RX-7 (185 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (160 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1986 Mazda RX-7 (246 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1986 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda RX-7 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2270 mm |
