1997 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat 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 3,595 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 310 kg more than 1997 Mazda RX-7. 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 Passat, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (359 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda RX-7. 2007 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda RX-7 | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-7 | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3595 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 280 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 359 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2720 mm |