2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 361 kg more than 1997 Mazda RX-7.
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, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 1997 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-7 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 271 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2430 mm |