1988 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mazda RX-7 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 101 kg more than 1988 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1988 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 1988 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1988 Mazda RX-7 (186 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1988 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Mazda RX-7 | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-7 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1988 | 1998 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 165 Nm |
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 | 1331 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2520 mm |