Japan vs Japan — 1971 vs 1973
| RX-3 Savanna GT | Celica GT-R TA22 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 115 hp |
| Torque | 101 lb-ft | 105 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,146 cc | 1,588 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0 sec | 10.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 109 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 17.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,061 lbs | 2,138 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,310 mm | 2,425 mm |
| Length | 4,065 mm | 4,115 mm |
| Units Produced | 286,000 | 1,657 |
| Original MSRP | $3,200 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 9/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT offers quicker acceleration, higher top speed, better value, while the 1973 Toyota Celica GT-R TA22 counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility. 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 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT and 1973 Toyota Celica GT-R TA22 stand as two of the most notable Sports Coupe cars from Muscle era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT producing 110 hp and the 1973 Toyota Celica GT-R TA22 delivering 115 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda RX-3 uses a Wankel Rotary Twin-Rotor displacing 1,146 cc, while the Toyota Celica GT-R relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,588 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT edges ahead at 9.0 seconds versus 10.2 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,657 units built, the 1973 Toyota Celica GT-R TA22 is considerably scarcer than the Mazda RX-3's 286,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1973 Toyota Celica GT-R TA22 commands a significant premium over the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.