2008 Ford Taurus X vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus X (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Taurus X weights approximately 47 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Taurus X is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Mazda RX-7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X will offer significantly more control. 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 X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7. 2008 Ford Taurus X has automatic transmission and 1981 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1981 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Taurus X | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus X | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 65 L |
