2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 17 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 55 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 465 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7.
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, 2006 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 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. 2006 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. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
