1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2012 Lexus CT
To start off, 2012 Lexus CT is newer by 16 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 104 more horse power than 2012 Lexus CT. (134 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus CT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus CT weights approximately 117 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, 2012 Lexus CT, 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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus CT. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus CT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 2012 Lexus CT | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | RX-7 | CT |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4321 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
