Japan vs Japan — 1978 vs 2002
| RX-7 SA22C (FB) | RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 100 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 101 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 1,146 cc | — |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 121 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,420 mm | 2,425 mm |
| Length | 4,285 mm | 4,285 mm |
| Units Produced | 474,565 | 1,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $30,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 10/10 |
The 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1978 Mazda RX-7 SA22C (FB) counters with its unique character, 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-7 lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1978 Mazda RX-7 SA22C (FB) with the 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) reveals how Mazda refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 100 hp, a 180-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Wankel Rotary 12A in the Mazda RX-7 versus a Twin-Rotor Turbo in the Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S). The 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) claims a higher top speed at 155 mph compared to 121 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,500 units built, the 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) is considerably scarcer than the Mazda RX-7's 474,565 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.