1989 Dodge Daytona vs. 1979 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1989 Dodge Daytona is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Daytona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Daytona (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Daytona should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Daytona weights approximately 314 kg more than 1979 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Daytona, 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, 1989 Dodge Daytona (232 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Daytona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Daytona | 1979 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Daytona | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2430 mm |
