2009 Honda Element vs. 1998 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Honda Element is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1998 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (280 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2009 Honda Element. (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 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 191 kg more than 1998 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element, 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, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (315 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Element. (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Element. 2009 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1998 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Element | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2353 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1461 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 76 L |
