1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 7 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 78 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Because 2003 Mazda 6 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, 2003 Mazda 6 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6. 2003 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
