2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1998 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (265 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 89 kg more than 1998 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1998 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 1998 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, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (294 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 1998 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 3 | RX-7 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 265 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 294 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 76 L |