2009 Kia Optima vs. 1992 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 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, 1992 Mazda RX-7 (239 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 219 kg more than 1992 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1992 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 1992 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, 1992 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1992 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 77 L |
