1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2011 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 15 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 40 more horse power than 2011 Hyundai Sonata. (198 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2011 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 132 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
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, 2011 Hyundai Sonata, 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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Hyundai Sonata. (249 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 2011 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
| Model | RX-7 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2794 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 70 L |
