1983 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 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 2,292 cc, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1983 Mazda RX-7.
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, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mazda RX-7 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| 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 | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
