1988 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1988 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 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. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1988 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1988 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 1988 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda RX-7. 2009 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1988 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Mazda RX-7 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-7 | 3 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 187 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2650 mm |