Japan vs Japan — 1992 vs 1980
| RX-7 Spirit R (FD) | RX-7 FB Savanna GT | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 130 hp |
| Torque | 232 lb-ft | 123 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,308 cc | 1,146 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.8 sec | 9.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.2 sec | 16.8 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,326 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,425 mm | 2,420 mm |
| Length | 4,285 mm | 4,285 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,500 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R (FD) brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1980 Mazda RX-7 FB Savanna GT answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Mazda RX-7. The 1992 and 1980 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R (FD) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 130 hp, a 150-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda RX-7 uses a Twin-Rotor Sequential Twin-Turbo displacing 1,308 cc, while the Mazda RX-7 relies on a Rotary Wankel with 1,146 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R (FD) edges ahead at 4.8 seconds versus 9.2 seconds. On the collector market, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R (FD) commands a significant premium over the 1980 Mazda RX-7 FB Savanna GT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1980 Mazda RX-7 FB Savanna GT rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.