Japan vs Germany — 1992 vs 1998
| RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo | M Roadster S54 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 255 hp | 315 hp |
| Torque | 217 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,308 cc | 3,246 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec | 4.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.7 sec | 13.4 sec |
| Weight | 2,888 lbs | 3,086 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,425 mm | 2,446 mm |
| Length | 4,285 mm | 4,025 mm |
| Units Produced | 68,589 | 6,291 |
| Original MSRP | $31,300 | $42,370 |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 answers with more power, quicker acceleration, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Japan and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo versus 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 315 hp compared to 255 hp, a 60-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 BMW M Roadster relies on a Inline-6 DOHC 24V with 3,246 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 5.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 6,291 units built, the 1998 BMW M Roadster S54 is considerably scarcer than the Mazda RX-7's 68,589 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.