1991 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1991 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (166 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 111 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1991 Mazda RX-7 (270 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda RX-7 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 48 L |
