1991 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 22 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 29 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 58 kg more than 1991 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 1991 Mazda RX-7 (270 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1991 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1991 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1991 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda RX-7 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
