1989 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (200 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (264 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda RX-7 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2614 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 200 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 | 1285 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2730 mm |
