2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1991 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2004 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 285 kg more than 1991 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus, 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, 1991 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Taurus. (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1991 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Taurus. 2004 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1991 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1991 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1991 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 75 L |
