1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1986 Subaru XT
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 2,672 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 24 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT, 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, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 1986 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | RX-7 | XT |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2672 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | boxer |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 60 L |
