2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1987 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac XLR (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1987 Mazda RX-7. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 405 kg more than 1987 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda RX-7. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1987 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1987 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac XLR | 1987 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mazda |
| Model | XLR | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2440 mm |
