2007 Mazda 3 vs. 1987 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 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, 1987 Mazda RX-7 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 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, 1987 Mazda RX-7 (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 1987 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2440 mm |
