2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Mazda RX-7
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 133 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 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 117 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 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 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:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1996 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 77 L |
