2008 Ford Taurus vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus 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 3,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (197 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus.
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 Ford Taurus, 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 Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda RX-7. 2008 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Taurus | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Taurus | RX-7 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3495 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 263 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 338 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2430 mm |