1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1996 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 251 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-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, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 1996 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
