1986 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2012 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Sentra is newer by 26 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Sentra (200 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1986 Mazda RX-7. (185 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Sentra, 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, 1986 Mazda RX-7 (246 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Sentra. (244 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1986 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda RX-7 | 2012 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-7 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4575 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2685 mm |
