2008 Honda Element vs. 1986 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Honda Element is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. Both 2008 Honda Element and 1986 Mazda RX-7 are equipped with a 2,354 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mazda RX-7 (185 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2008 Honda Element. (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Honda Element.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda Element, 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, 1986 Mazda RX-7 (246 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Element. (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Element. 2008 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1986 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1986 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Element | 1986 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Element | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 2354 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
