2002 Lexus SC vs. 1979 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2002 Lexus SC is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 4,291 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus SC (278 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus SC weights approximately 680 kg more than 1979 Mazda RX-7. 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, 2002 Lexus SC (447 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda RX-7. 2002 Lexus SC has automatic transmission and 1979 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1979 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus SC | 1979 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | SC | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4291 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 278 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 65 L |
