2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1983 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1983 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 201 kg more than 1983 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mazda RX-7. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1983 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1983 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1983 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
Model | Malibu | RX-7 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2397 cc | 2292 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 169 HP | 105 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 217 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |