1997 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1956 Porsche 356
To start off, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1956 Porsche 356.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1997 Mazda RX-7 has automatic transmission and 1956 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1956 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mazda RX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda RX-7 | 1956 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | RX-7 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | boxer |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2110 mm |
