2009 Fiat 500 vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Fiat 500 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2009 Fiat 500. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 290 kg more than 2009 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Fiat 500, 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, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat 500. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat 500 | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 500 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2440 mm |
