1978 Alpine A 442 vs. 1988 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Alpine A 442. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Alpine A 442 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 336 more horse power than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1978 Alpine A 442.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Alpine A 442 | 1988 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Alpine | Mazda |
| Model | A 442 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1230 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2440 mm |
