1998 Lexus ES vs. 1985 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1998 Lexus ES 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus ES (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (165 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus ES weights approximately 618 kg more than 1985 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Lexus ES, 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 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda RX-7. 1998 Lexus ES 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 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus ES | 1985 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | ES | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2430 mm |
