1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2006 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2006 Nissan Maxima is newer by 17 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 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Maxima (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster 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, 2006 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2006 Nissan Maxima (347 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda RX-7. 2006 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda RX-7 | 2006 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-7 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 347 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2830 mm |
