2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
