1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco 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, 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco (261 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco 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 4 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco.
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 Volkswagen Scirocco, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Scirocco | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Scirocco |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4256 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1404 mm |
