1988 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 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 74 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf, 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1988 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda RX-7 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2590 mm |
