Japan vs Germany — 1971 vs 1962
| RX-3 Savanna GT | 1300 GT Frua Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 101 lb-ft | 80 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,146 cc | 1,290 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0 sec | 13.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 118 mph | 103 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,061 lbs | 1,874 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,310 mm | 2,250 mm |
| Length | 4,065 mm | 4,170 mm |
| Units Produced | 286,000 | 5,491 |
| Original MSRP | $3,200 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
On balance, the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1962 Glas 1300 GT Frua Coupe counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT for outright capability, or the 1962 Glas 1300 GT Frua Coupe for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between Japan and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT versus 1962 Glas 1300 GT Frua Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT holds a clear advantage in raw power with 110 hp compared to 75 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda RX-3 uses a Wankel Rotary Twin-Rotor displacing 1,146 cc, while the Glas 1300 GT relies on a Inline-4 OHC with 1,290 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Savanna GT edges ahead at 9.0 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 5,491 units built, the 1962 Glas 1300 GT Frua Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Mazda RX-3's 286,000 examples.