2009 Honda Element vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Honda Element 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 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2009 Honda Element. (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Element weights approximately 174 kg more than 1997 Mazda RX-7.
Because 2009 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mazda RX-7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element 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, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Element. (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Element | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1484 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
