1996 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina is newer by 15 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 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina (200 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 470 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. 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, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Lumina | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Lumina | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2430 mm |
