1998 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1985 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1998 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Hyundai Sonata (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1998 Hyundai Sonata (181 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda RX-7. 1998 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Hyundai Sonata | 1985 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
