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 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 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 47 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 (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 39 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 | 1999 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 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 | 1107 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 65 L |
