1994 Ford Probe vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1994 Ford Probe is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Ford Probe (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Ford Probe weights approximately 235 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Ford Probe, 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, 1994 Ford Probe (212 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1994 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
1994 Ford Probe | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Probe | RX-7 |
Year Released | 1994 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2292 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 212 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1280 mm |