1988 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta 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 34 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 46 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, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1988 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda RX-7 | 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2580 mm |
