1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (200 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (169 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1989 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 1989 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, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (264 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1989 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:
1989 Mazda RX-7 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
Model | RX-7 | Malibu |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2614 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 169 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 264 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4872 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2852 mm |