1987 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1987 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda RX-7 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 66 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 Mazda RX-7 (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Mazda RX-7 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-7 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1164 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |