2006 Chevrolet Uplander vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Uplander is newer by 25 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Uplander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Uplander (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Uplander should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Uplander weights approximately 1300 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, 2006 Chevrolet Uplander, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Uplander (293 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Uplander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7. 2006 Chevrolet Uplander has automatic transmission and 1981 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1981 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Uplander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Uplander | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Uplander | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 293 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2360 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 65 L |
