1988 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 24 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, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
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, 2012 Hyundai Elantra, 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (177 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1988 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. 2012 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 1988 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1988 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda RX-7 | 2012 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
| Model | RX-7 | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2700 mm |
