1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1987 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1987 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda RX-7 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1987 Mazda RX-7 (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1987 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-7 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1987 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 186 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2440 mm |