1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda RX-7 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-7 | 3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 149 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 182 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 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 |