1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 22 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 86 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 2400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2011 Volkswagen 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 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle 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. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda RX-7 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-7 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2614 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Torque | 264 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |