1985 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 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 57 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 348 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, 2007 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (241 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda RX-7. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
