Japan vs Japan — 1978 vs 1975
| RX-7 SA22C (FB) | RX-5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 100 hp | — |
| Torque | 101 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 1,146 cc | 1,308 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 121 mph | — |
| ¼ Mile | 16.5 sec | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,420 mm | — |
| Length | 4,285 mm | — |
| Units Produced | 474,565 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $30,000 | — |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1978 Mazda RX-7 SA22C (FB) brings its unique character to the table, and the 1975 Mazda RX-5 answers with its own distinct appeal. 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 1978 and 1975 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. Both cars represent compelling choices in their respective segments. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.