1983 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 2,292 cc, 1983 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (146 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 65 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 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, 1983 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (135 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Mazda RX-7 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
