1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (156 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 346 kg more than 1980 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda RX-7. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1980 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1980 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 1980 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1406 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 65 L |
