2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1987 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1987 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1987 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1987 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 1987 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 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1987 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2440 mm |
