2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1997 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (197 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (170 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1997 Mazda RX-7 (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Malibu | RX-7 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2401 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 217 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2430 mm |