1996 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 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 90 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 3.
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, 2010 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, 2010 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda RX-7. (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-7 | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-7 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
