Japan vs Japan — 1992 vs 1978
| RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo | RX-7 SA22C (FB) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 255 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 217 lb-ft | 101 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,308 cc | 1,146 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 121 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.7 sec | 16.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,888 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,425 mm | 2,420 mm |
| Length | 4,285 mm | 4,285 mm |
| Units Produced | 68,589 | 474,565 |
| Original MSRP | $31,300 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $90,000 | $30,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 4/10 |
On balance, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1978 Mazda RX-7 SA22C (FB) counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo for outright capability, or the 1978 Mazda RX-7 SA22C (FB) for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Mazda RX-7. The 1992 and 1978 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 255 hp compared to 100 hp, a 155-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda RX-7 uses a Twin-Rotor Wankel 13B-REW Twin Turbo displacing 1,308 cc, while the Mazda RX-7 relies on a Wankel Rotary 12A with 1,146 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 9.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 68,589 units built, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo is considerably scarcer than the Mazda RX-7's 474,565 examples. On the collector market, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo commands a significant premium over the 1978 Mazda RX-7 SA22C (FB), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 FD3S Twin Turbo rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.