Japan vs Japan — 1971 vs 1965
| RX-3 Savanna GT | Skyline GT S54 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 105 hp |
| Torque | 101 lb-ft | 116 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,146 cc | 1,988 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0 sec | 11.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 103 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,061 lbs | 2,315 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,310 mm | 2,590 mm |
| Length | 4,065 mm | 4,395 mm |
| Units Produced | 286,000 | 1,945 |
| Original MSRP | $3,200 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
On balance, the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT makes a stronger case on paper with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. However, the 1965 Prince Skyline GT S54 counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT for outright capability, or the 1965 Prince Skyline GT S54 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
In the world of Sports Coupe cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT versus the 1965 Prince Skyline GT S54. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT producing 110 hp and the 1965 Prince Skyline GT S54 delivering 105 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda RX-3 uses a Wankel Rotary Twin-Rotor displacing 1,146 cc, while the Prince Skyline GT relies on a Inline-6 SOHC with 1,988 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT edges ahead at 9.0 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. The Mazda RX-3 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 254 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,945 units built, the 1965 Prince Skyline GT S54 is considerably scarcer than the Mazda RX-3's 286,000 examples.