2008 Ford Taurus X vs. 1998 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 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, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (265 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Ford Taurus X. (264 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Taurus X. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 163 kg more than 2008 Ford Taurus X. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X, 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 X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda RX-7. (294 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda RX-7. 2008 Ford Taurus X has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1998 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 | 1998 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus X | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 76 L |
