Japan vs Japan — 1992 vs 1991
| RX-7 Spirit R Type A | RX-7 FD3S Spirit R Type A | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 232 lb-ft | 232 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,308 cc | 1,308 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec | 4.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 161 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 13.5 sec |
| Wheelbase | 2,425 mm | 2,425 mm |
| Length | 4,285 mm | 4,295 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,500 | 1,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 7/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A excels in higher top speed, while the 1991 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Spirit R Type A stands out for quicker acceleration. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Tracing the evolution of the Mazda RX-7 from 1992 to 1991 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Mazda. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A producing 280 hp and the 1991 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Spirit R Type A delivering 280 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda RX-7 uses a Twin-Rotor Twin-Turbo Wankel displacing 1,308 cc, while the Mazda RX-7 relies on a Wankel Rotary 13B-REW Twin-Turbocharged with 1,308 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1991 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Spirit R Type A edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 5.0 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.