Japan vs Germany — 1992 vs 2016
| RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo | Cayman GT4 981 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 255 hp | 385 hp |
| Torque | 217 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,308 cc | 3,800 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec | 4.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 183 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.7 sec | 12.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,888 lbs | 2,954 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,425 mm | 2,484 mm |
| Length | 4,285 mm | 4,438 mm |
| Units Produced | 68,589 | 2,871 |
| Original MSRP | $31,300 | $84,600 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $140,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
The 2016 Porsche Cayman GT4 981 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo counters with stronger collectibility, 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.
When Japan engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo and 2016 Porsche Cayman GT4 981 embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 2016 Porsche Cayman GT4 981 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 385 hp compared to 255 hp, a 130-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda RX-7 uses a Twin-Rotor Wankel 13B-REW Twin Turbo displacing 1,308 cc, while the Porsche Cayman GT4 relies on a Flat-6 DOHC 24V with 3,800 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2016 Porsche Cayman GT4 981 edges ahead at 4.2 seconds versus 5.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,871 units built, the 2016 Porsche Cayman GT4 981 is considerably scarcer than the Mazda RX-7's 68,589 examples. On the collector market, the 2016 Porsche Cayman GT4 981 commands a significant premium over the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.