1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 1990 Holden Nova

To start off, 1990 Holden Nova is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1990 Holden Nova. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1990 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1990 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Holden Nova, 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, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Holden Nova. 1990 Holden Nova has automatic transmission and 1981 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1981 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Holden Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Mazda RX-7 1990 Holden Nova
Make Mazda Holden
Model RX-7 Nova
Year Released 1981 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2292 cc 1396 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary in-line
Horse Power 104 HP 81 HP
Torque 145 Nm 118 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1060 kg 1015 kg
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2440 mm


 

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