Japan vs Japan — 1980 vs 1992
| RX-7 FB Savanna GT | RX-7 Type R FD3S | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 130 hp | 255 hp |
| Torque | 123 lb-ft | 217 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,146 cc | 1,308 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.2 sec | 4.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.8 sec | 13.4 sec |
| Weight | 2,326 lbs | 2,778 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,420 mm | 2,425 mm |
| Length | 4,285 mm | 4,295 mm |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 8/10 |
Numbers favor the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type R FD3S with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1980 Mazda RX-7 FB Savanna GT offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Mazda RX-7. The 1980 and 1992 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type R FD3S holds a clear advantage in raw power with 255 hp compared to 130 hp, a 125-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda RX-7 uses a Rotary Wankel displacing 1,146 cc, while the Mazda RX-7 relies on a Rotary Twin Turbo (13B-REW) with 1,308 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type R FD3S edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 9.2 seconds. The Mazda RX-7 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 452 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Type R FD3S commands a significant premium over the 1980 Mazda RX-7 FB Savanna GT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.