2008 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1996 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Impala. (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Impala. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Impala, 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 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Impala. (290 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Impala. 2008 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Impala | 1996 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Impala | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
