1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 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, 2010 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 116 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7. 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, 2010 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2010 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda RX-7 | 2010 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2578 mm |
