Japan vs Japan — 1992 vs 1974
| RX-7 Type RS (FD3S) | RX-4 Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 232 lb-ft | 119 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,308 cc | 1,308 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.8 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 158 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,535 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,425 mm | 2,510 mm |
| Length | 4,295 mm | 4,530 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 86,522 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,795 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 7/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type RS (FD3S) offers more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed, while the 1974 Mazda RX-4 Coupe counters with stronger collectibility, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
The Mazda RX-7 lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type RS (FD3S) with the 1974 Mazda RX-4 Coupe reveals how Mazda refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type RS (FD3S) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 110 hp, a 170-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. 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-4 relies on a Rotary (Wankel) 13B with 1,308 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type RS (FD3S) edges ahead at 4.8 seconds versus 9.8 seconds. On the collector market, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type RS (FD3S) commands a significant premium over the 1974 Mazda RX-4 Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.