Japan vs Japan — 1971 vs 1992
| RX-3 Savanna GT | RX-7 Type R FD3S | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 255 hp |
| Torque | 101 lb-ft | 217 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,146 cc | 1,308 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0 sec | 4.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | 13.4 sec |
| Weight | 2,061 lbs | 2,778 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,310 mm | 2,425 mm |
| Length | 4,065 mm | 4,295 mm |
| Units Produced | 286,000 | — |
| Original MSRP | $3,200 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
The 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type R FD3S emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT counters with lighter weight, better value, 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.
The Mazda RX-3 lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT with the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type R FD3S reveals how Mazda refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type R FD3S holds a clear advantage in raw power with 255 hp compared to 110 hp, a 145-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda RX-3 uses a Wankel Rotary Twin-Rotor displacing 1,146 cc, while the Mazda RX-7 relies on a Rotary Twin Turbo (13B-REW) with 1,308 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type R FD3S edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 9.0 seconds. The Mazda RX-3 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 717 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type R FD3S commands a significant premium over the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.