1999 Ford Fiesta vs. 1996 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1999 Ford Fiesta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1999 Ford Fiesta. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 334 kg more than 1999 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Fiesta. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Fiesta | 1996 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 976 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
