1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 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 155 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2006 Mazda 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, 2006 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, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda RX-7 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-7 | 3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1349 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 238 HP | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 296 Nm | 124 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |