2006 Kia Sorento vs. 1988 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2006 Kia Sorento is newer by 18 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Sorento (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Sorento weights approximately 797 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, 2006 Kia Sorento, 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, 2006 Kia Sorento (301 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda RX-7. 2006 Kia Sorento has automatic transmission and 1988 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1988 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Sorento | 1988 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sorento | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2027 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2440 mm |
