2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 11 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (346 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (197 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 435 kg more than 1997 Mazda RX-7. 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, 2008 Dodge Ram, 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Ram | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 346 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5840 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2430 mm |
