1998 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1998 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (280 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 134 kg more than 1998 Mazda RX-7.
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, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda RX-7 | 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | RX-7 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 76 L |
