2008 Ford Focus vs. 1980 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1980 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 290 kg more than 1980 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1980 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
