2004 Honda Z vs. 1988 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2004 Honda Z is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mazda RX-7 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2004 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2004 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Honda Z is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Mazda RX-7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Honda Z will offer significantly more control. 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, 1988 Mazda RX-7 (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda Z. (62 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Z | 1988 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Z | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 656 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2440 mm |
