2008 Mazda 6 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 269 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6, 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 Mazda 6 (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7. 2008 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |
