Japan vs Japan — 1970 vs 1972
| Fairlady Z 432 (S20) | Savanna RX-3 Racing (S102A) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 160 hp | 105 hp |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 110 mph |
| Weight | 2,271 lbs | 1,962 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,305 mm | 2,310 mm |
| Length | 4,115 mm | 4,140 mm |
| Units Produced | 420 | 286,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 8/10 |
On balance, the 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) makes a stronger case on paper with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. However, the 1972 Mazda Savanna RX-3 Racing (S102A) counters with lighter weight, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) for outright capability, or the 1972 Mazda Savanna RX-3 Racing (S102A) for a more distinctive ownership experience.
In the world of Coupe cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) versus the 1972 Mazda Savanna RX-3 Racing (S102A). Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 160 hp compared to 105 hp, a 55-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Inline-6 in the Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) versus a Twin-Rotor Wankel in the Mazda Savanna RX-3 Racing (S102A). The 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) claims a higher top speed at 125 mph compared to 110 mph. The Mazda Savanna RX-3 Racing (S102A) carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 309 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 420 units built, the 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) is considerably scarcer than the Mazda Savanna RX-3 Racing (S102A)'s 286,000 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Nissan Fairlady Z 432 (S20) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.