2005 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 177 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (241 Nm). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 1996 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
