Japan vs Japan — 1985 vs 2002
| RX-7 FC3S Turbo II | RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 200 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 1,308 cc | — |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 146 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,430 mm | 2,425 mm |
| Length | 4,310 mm | 4,285 mm |
| Units Produced | 272,027 | 1,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
The 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1985 Mazda RX-7 FC3S Turbo II counters with its unique character, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Tracing the evolution of the Mazda RX-7 from 1985 to 2002 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Mazda. The 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 200 hp, a 80-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Wankel Rotary 13B Twin-Scroll Turbocharged in the Mazda RX-7 versus a Twin-Rotor Turbo in the Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S). The 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) claims a higher top speed at 155 mph compared to 146 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,500 units built, the 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) is considerably scarcer than the Mazda RX-7's 272,027 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.