1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 13 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 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 55 L |
