2008 Kia Sorento vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Kia Sorento 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 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Sorento (262 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Sorento weights approximately 225 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 Kia Sorento 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 Kia Sorento 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 Kia Sorento (353 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7. 2008 Kia Sorento 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 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sorento | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sorento | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
