2009 Kia Optima vs. 1987 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1987 Mazda RX-7. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 289 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.
Because 1987 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 1987 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda RX-7. 2009 Kia Optima 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 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1987 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
