1978 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 675 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra, 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 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-7 | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | RX-7 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
