2006 Mazda 6 vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 17 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 2,966 cc, 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 6 (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (200 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2006 Mazda 6.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 6 (271 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (264 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 2614 cc |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2430 mm |
