1985 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1985 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 104 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1985 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1985 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 1985 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 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 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 1985 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda RX-7 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
