1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2004 Porsche 996
To start off, 2004 Porsche 996 is newer by 8 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 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Porsche 996 weights approximately 178 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Porsche 996 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, 2004 Porsche 996 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, 2004 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 2004 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | RX-7 | 996 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
