1997 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda RX-7 | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-7 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2580 mm |
