Japan vs Japan — 1991 vs 2006
| RX-7 FD3S Spirit R Type A | Mazdaspeed 3 2.3 Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 263 hp |
| Torque | 232 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,308 cc | 2,261 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.9 sec | 5.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,168 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,425 mm | 2,640 mm |
| Length | 4,295 mm | 4,490 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,500 | — |
| Original MSRP | — | $23,700 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $25,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 5/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1991 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Spirit R Type A offers quicker acceleration, while the 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 2.3 Turbo counters with 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.
Within the Mazda stable, the 1991 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Spirit R Type A and 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 2.3 Turbo represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Mazda badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1991 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Spirit R Type A producing 280 hp and the 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 2.3 Turbo delivering 263 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda RX-7 uses a Wankel Rotary 13B-REW Twin-Turbocharged displacing 1,308 cc, while the Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC Turbocharged with 2,261 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1991 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Spirit R Type A edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 5.4 seconds. On the collector market, the 1991 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Spirit R Type A commands a significant premium over the 2006 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3 2.3 Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.