The Mazda RX-7 was a popular sports car that the automaker produced from 1978 to 2002. More than 811,000 vehicles were created during that time, headquartered in the company’s Hiroshima assembly plant. It used a front mid-engine with an RWD concept while using the F platform.
Three generations of the Mazda RX-7 exist, designated as FB, FC, and FC. The FB was a hatchback coupe with a two-seat interior.
Early models used a carbureted engine, while later options included electronic fuel injection when the technology was available.
You can still purchase a Mazda Miata. The 2022 model year comes with a soft or hard top option, along with several sporty features to enjoy.
The NA Miata was the first generation. The NB version launched in 1998, while the NC came out in 2005.
The Miata is the best-selling two-seat convertible in history. More than one million have been produced since its initial design.
FB Mazda RX-7 vs NA Mazda Miata
The FB Mazda RX-7 and NA Mazda Miata are excellent examples of sports car design. Both vehicles entered the marketplace with great acclaim, going on to serve drivers in legendary ways while staying affordable. Both are fun to drive, but the Miata has a slight edge based on what it provides.
When the RX-7 and Miata came to the market, the automotive industry was creating simple cars that drove fast. You could get a Toyota Camry during those times that delivered over 300 HP.
What made these two Mazda vehicles popular were three traits: sportiness, low maintenance costs, and whether you wanted to drive a convertible.
From 1978 to 2002, Mazda used the Wankel rotary engine in the RX-7. When the Miata MX-5 was introduced to the North American market, it provided drivers with an affordable convertible option that felt like a vintage Pontiac with its rounded nose.
Both vehicles are available on the second-hand market. Some have received extensive modifications, while others still drive exceptionally well with the stock setup.
Here is an overview to consider when comparing the two cars so that you can select the one that makes the most sense for your needs.
Engine Comparison: FB Mazda RX-7 vs. NA Mazda Miata
The RX-7 and the Miata came with two engine choices, although the Wankel version was the superior option for most drivers.
That internal combustion engine uses a rotary design that converts pressure into a rotating motion.
This unique element provides uniform torque and less vibration than a traditional reciprocating piston engine.
Another element of the Wankel engine is the toothed gearing it uses, turning three times faster than standard output generation.
The Mazda Miata uses a 2.0L, four-cylinder SKYACTIV-G® engine to deliver power. It still competes as a performance convertible with that setup, offering 181 HP and up to 34 miles per gallon.
Maintenance Needs: FB Mazda RX-7 vs. NA Mazda Miata
Although the first generation of both vehicles has maintenance challenges to consider, the Miata is typically easier to service. This issue is where the Wankel engine becomes a disadvantage.
It’s more than just fuel economy, although the 2015 Corvette Stingray gets better gas mileage than the RX-7.
A rotary engine usually needs to be rebuilt between 50,000 to 100,000 miles. When they’re driven hard, that time can be shortened signifi9cantly.
Mazda engines include an injector pump. This part puts a little oil into the engine housing and air intake, causing it to burn eventually.
That increases the risk of carbon deposits while raising the emission gases produced while operating.
The standard engine setup for the Miata is easier to maintain. Since it is more of a recreational drive than the RX-7, it isn’t pushed as hard by most drivers. That allows the equipment to last a bit longer.
Overall Design: FB Mazda RX-7 vs. NA Mazda Miata
The primary convertible option for the RX-7 wasn’t introduced until the second generation, although the hatchback style does provide modification options that some owners have turned into soft tops.
Those cars in the early 1970s all looked like the Ford Mustang. If you put a Mazda RX-7, Mercury Capri, and Mustang in a lineup, the non-enthusiast would struggle to identify each one if the emblems weren’t on the vehicles.
Both vehicles are small, but the decision here isn’t about size. Do you prefer power and acceleration, or do you want more of a cruising experience?
The RX-7 is that sporty car you always wanted to drive in high school, while the Miata is that road-tripping vehicle where you can enjoy the breeze on a sunny day. Since this comparison is entirely subjective, there’s no way to deliver a clear winner.
Specification Comparison: FB Mazda RX-7 vs. NA Mazda Miata
When looking at the early RX-7s, you might see some designated as an SA. The first series complied with Japanese sizing requirements to prevent extra taxes for driving a larger vehicle, but some changes came around when it reached the U.S. market.
Here is an overview of what you can expect to experience when getting behind the wheel of a Mazda RX-7.
| Vehicle Overview: | The Mazda FB RX-7 is sometimes referred to as the Savannah RX-7 or the SA RX-7. It was in production from 1978 to 1985, with more than 471,000 vehicles produced. Matasaburo Maeda designed the RX-7 for Mazda in 1976. |
| Chassis and Body: | The RX-7 features a two-door coupe-style design. It is built on Mazda’s SA22 platform. |
| Powertrain Info: | Each version of the RX-7 was built with the Wankel rotary motor. Three options were available in the SA/FB lineup, including a 1,146cc option, a turbocharged 12A, and a 1,308cc design. The RX-7 offers a three- or four-speed automatic transmission or a four- or five-speed manual. |
| Dimensions: | The Mazda RX-7 FB offers a wheelbase of 95.3 inches. It’s 168.7 inches long, 65.9 inches wide, and just under 50 inches tall. The curb weight is about 2,500 pounds. |
When looking at the NA Mazda Miata MX-5, there are some key differences to review when comparing it to the RX-7.
| Vehicle Overview: | The Mazda Miata’s current generation is still in production. It was in production for the NA model from 1989 to 1997, with more than 228,000 vehicles produced during that time. It was the Car of the Year winner for Wheels Magazine in 1989. |
| Chassis and Body: | The Miata MX-5 uses a double wishbone suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar rear design.It is built on Mazda’s N platform. |
| Powertrain Info: | The Mazda Miata uses an inline four motor that delivers 99 pound-feet of torque at 5,500 RPM. It can achieve a top speed of 121 miles per hour. The NA uses a five-speed manual transmission featuring high-quality bronze and aluminum racing bushings. |
| Dimensions: | The Mazda Miata offers a wheelbase of 89.2 inches. It’s 155.4 inches long, 65.9 inches wide (without mirrors), and 48 inches tall. The curb weight for the vehicle is 2,116 pounds. |
Interior Space: FB Mazda RX-7 vs. NA Mazda Miata
The RX-7 delivers significantly more interior space than a Miata. It also offers more luggage and cargo space, making it a better fit for larger or taller people.
Although there’s no critical difference in drivability with this comparison, the extra space is nice to have when you’re behind the wheel daily.
Those first-generation RX-7s did tend to have finicky electronics because Mazda used cold solder joints for the connections. You might see the warning lights or hear the buzzer go off when hitting a speed bump.
The catalytic converter can run hot on the RX-7, which sometimes translates into interior temperature concerns. It’s not unusual to see it kill grass when it’s parked over it.
The FB Mazda RX-7 vs. NA Mazda Miata: Which Is Better?
The FB Mazda RX-7 does an excellent job providing speed and support. With the NA Mazda Miata MX-5, drivers receive more comfort and reliability. With the primary difference involving the engine style, the choice is between an inline or a rotary motor.
When driving the RX-7 and the Miata, you’ll discover that they feel quite different behind the wheel. They behave and operate differently.
It’s like comparing a mountain bike to a street racer. One provides comfort and durability, while the other knows how to go fast.
The only issue that draws concern to the 7 is its rotary motor. It needs a workshop every so often, which typically costs about $3,000 to complete (although prices are variable).
It’s not the kind of job most people can DIY. You just have the noise to manage in the cabin.
As for the Miata, it offers a traditional driving experience. You can run with the top down, keep it up in winter, and have reliable transportation. It just feels a little small inside compared to the RX-7.
I’ve had the privilege of enjoying both vehicles over the years. Each has some advantages that make driving fun. Once you try one or the other, I think you’ll be hooked for life!