2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1985 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1985 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda RX-7 (165 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 228 kg more than 1985 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1985 Mazda RX-7 (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda 3 | 1985 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 3 | RX-7 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2292 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 912 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |