1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1978 Simca Horizon

To start off, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Simca Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Simca Horizon would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1978 Simca Horizon. (69 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1978 Simca Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1978 Simca Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Simca Horizon, 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 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Simca Horizon. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Simca Horizon.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Mazda RX-7 1978 Simca Horizon
Make Mazda Simca
Model RX-7 Horizon
Year Released 1989 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2616 cc 1442 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 69 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 271 Nm 116 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 975 kg
Vehicle Length 4320 mm 3970 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1270 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2530 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 47 L