1989 Ford Meteor vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1989 Ford Meteor is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1989 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Meteor.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Meteor, 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, 1978 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Meteor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Meteor | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Meteor | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2430 mm |
