2005 Mazda 6 vs. 1988 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 17 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, 2005 Mazda 6 (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1988 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Mazda 6, 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, 2005 Mazda 6 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 6 | 1988 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1430 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2440 mm |
