2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1979 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1979 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 95 kg more than 1979 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1979 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-7 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2292 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |