1979 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra 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 Saturn Astra (136 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 220 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.
Because 1979 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 1979 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, 1979 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (125 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda RX-7 | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | RX-7 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
