2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-7 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, both vehicles can yield 145 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4290 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 |
