Japan vs Japan — 1992 vs 1989

| RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo | Familia GT-R BG8Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 255 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 217 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,308 cc | 1,840 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec | 6.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 143 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.7 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Weight | 2,888 lbs | 2,601 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,425 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 4,285 mm | 4,030 mm |
| Units Produced | 68,589 | 5,000 |
| Original MSRP | $31,300 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo excels in more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z stands out for lighter weight, greater rarity, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo and 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z share a manufacturer in Mazda, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Mazda brand. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 255 hp compared to 210 hp, a 45-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda RX-7 uses a Twin-Rotor Wankel 13B-REW Twin Turbo displacing 1,308 cc, while the Mazda Familia GT-R relies on a Inline-4 DOHC Turbocharged with 1,840 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 6.0 seconds. The Mazda Familia GT-R carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 287 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 5,000 units built, the 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z is considerably scarcer than the Mazda RX-7's 68,589 examples.