2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1984 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1984 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1984 Mazda RX-7. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 1984 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 1984 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mazda RX-7. (158 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1984 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
