1987 Ford Taurus vs. 1983 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1987 Ford Taurus is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Taurus (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1983 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Taurus weights approximately 410 kg more than 1983 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Ford Taurus, 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, 1987 Ford Taurus (292 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Taurus | 1983 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2430 mm |
