2007 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 18 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 (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu. (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Chevrolet Malibu.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Chevrolet Malibu (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda RX-7. 2007 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. 2007 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chevrolet Malibu | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2440 mm |
