1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 16 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 2,616 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 168 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, 2005 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 (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda RX-7 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2520 mm |
