1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 12 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 79 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
