1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 31 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
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, 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 (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu 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. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda RX-7 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
Model | RX-7 | Malibu |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 169 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 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 | 4300 mm | 4872 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2852 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |