2009 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Equinox. (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Equinox. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 49 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Equinox. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda RX-7. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Equinox | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Equinox | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3425 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2430 mm |
