1979 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 33 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 2,400 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda RX-7.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda RX-7. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1979 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1979 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda RX-7 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | RX-7 | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2852 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
