Mazda RX-7

vs

Pontiac Solstice

Japan vs USA — 1992 vs 2006

Mazda RX-7 (1992)
Pontiac Solstice (2006)
Specifications
RX-7 FD3S Twin TurboSolstice GXP Coupe
Horsepower255 hp260 hp
Torque217 lb-ft260 lb-ft
Engine Size1,308 cc1,998 cc
0-60 mph5.0 sec5.3 sec
Top Speed155 mph155 mph
¼ Mile13.7 sec13.8 sec
Weight2,888 lbs2,968 lbs
Wheelbase2,425 mm2,415 mm
Length4,285 mm3,989 mm
Units Produced68,5891,266
Original MSRP$31,300$27,795
Value (Excellent)$90,000$55,000
Collectibility9/107/10
Rarity7/108/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo brings quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 2006 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe answers with greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Japan and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo versus 2006 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo producing 255 hp and the 2006 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe delivering 260 hp. 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 Pontiac Solstice relies on a Inline-4 Turbocharged with 1,998 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 5.3 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,266 units built, the 2006 Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Mazda RX-7's 68,589 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.