2007 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Hyundai Elantra | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2430 mm |
