1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (200 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 7 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7.
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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 (264 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda RX-7 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-7 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2614 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 264 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1292 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |