Japan vs Japan — 2003 vs 2002
| RX-8 Type S | RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 232 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 159 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 1,308 cc | — |
| 0-60 mph | 6.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 146 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,888 lbs | 2,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,700 mm | 2,425 mm |
| Length | 4,435 mm | 4,285 mm |
| Units Produced | 192,094 | 1,500 |
| Original MSRP | $26,700 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | — |
| 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 2003 Mazda RX-8 Type S 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-8 lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 2003 Mazda RX-8 Type S 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 232 hp, a 48-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Rotary (Wankel) Twin-Rotor in the Mazda RX-8 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 146 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-8's 192,094 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2002 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A (FD3S) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.