1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2012 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix is newer by 23 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 68 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Matrix. (132 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Matrix.
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, 2012 Toyota Matrix, 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Matrix. (173 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Matrix. 2012 Toyota Matrix 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. 2012 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda RX-7 | 2012 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-7 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2614 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2601 mm |
