1995 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1995 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1995 Mazda RX-7. (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1995 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda RX-7. (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda RX-7 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 55 L |
