1985 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 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, 1985 Mazda RX-7 (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 323 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, 2006 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, 1985 Mazda RX-7 (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda RX-7 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1235 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 |
