1978 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-7 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
