Japan vs Japan — 1992 vs 1991
| RX-7 Spirit R (FD) | 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 | 4.8 sec | 4.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.2 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 | 7/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R (FD) brings quicker acceleration to the table, and the 1991 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Spirit R Type A answers with its own distinct appeal. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Mazda RX-7. The 1992 and 1991 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R (FD) 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 Sequential Twin-Turbo 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 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R (FD) edges ahead at 4.8 seconds versus 4.9 seconds. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.