2004 Kia Cerato vs. 1988 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2004 Kia Cerato 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 6 more horse power than 2004 Kia Cerato. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Cerato. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Cerato weights approximately 15 kg more than 1988 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1988 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 1988 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Cerato, 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, 2004 Kia Cerato (193 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Kia Cerato will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Cerato | 1988 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Cerato | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1245 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2440 mm |
