1998 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza

To start off, 1998 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1998 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (280 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (81 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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 Mazda RX-7 (315 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (130 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Mazda RX-7 1981 Nissan Stanza
Make Mazda Nissan
Model RX-7 Stanza
Year Released 1998 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2616 cc 1598 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary in-line
Horse Power 280 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 315 Nm 130 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 3200 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1270 kg 880 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4310 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1240 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2480 mm