1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 8 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 2,616 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 112 kg more than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cavalier | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 75 L |
