2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1987 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2,616 cc, 1987 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1987 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1987 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2440 mm |
