2004 Kia Optima vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (200 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 264 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima, 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, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (264 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |
