1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 3 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda RX-7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1299 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 55 L |
