RX-7 FD vs Supra MK4: Rotary vs Inline-6
Mazda RX-7 vs Toyota Supra comparison. 13B-REW vs 2JZ-GTE, the ultimate 90s JDM showdown.
JDM Icons Face Off
The Mazda RX-7 FD and Toyota Supra MK4 are two of the most celebrated Japanese sports cars ever produced. Both emerged in the early 1990s, both achieved legendary status, and both have become increasingly valuable collectors' items. Yet they represent fundamentally different approaches to high performance.
This comparison explores two cars that defined an era and continue to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.
Detailed Comparison
Head to Head
Powertrain Philosophy
Mazda RX-7 FD:
The 13B-REW sequential twin-turbo rotary engine is unlike anything else. At 255hp (JDM: 276hp) from 1.3L of displacement, it achieves this through rotary technology's unique characteristics. The engine spins freely to 8,000+ RPM with a smoothness impossible for piston engines.
Toyota Supra MK4:
The legendary 2JZ-GTE 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six produces 320hp in Japanese specification (276hp US). This engine has become the most celebrated tuning platform in automotive history, with proven capability for 1,000+ horsepower builds.
Verdict: RX-7 for unique character; Supra for tuning potential.
Design and Engineering
RX-7 FD:
Designed to be a lightweight, balanced sports car. At 2,800 lbs, the FD maintains ideal weight distribution. The rotary engine sits low and forward of center, enabling superb handling dynamics. Form follows function—every curve serves aerodynamics.
Supra MK4:
A grand touring sports car that can also devastate drag strips. At 3,400+ lbs, it's significantly heavier than the RX-7. The design accommodates comfort features alongside performance, making it more versatile but less focused.
Verdict: RX-7 for pure sports car; Supra for GT capability.
Driving Experience
RX-7 FD:
The FD demands driver attention. The rotary requires proper warm-up, rev maintenance, and careful cooling. The chassis rewards precision with telepathic feedback. It's an involving, demanding relationship.
Supra MK4:
More forgiving and easier to live with. The inline-six has broader power delivery and conventional service requirements. The heavier weight means less agility but more stability and comfort.
Verdict: RX-7 for engagement; Supra for accessibility.
Values and Collectibility
RX-7 FD: $35,000-80,000+ for clean examples. Dwindling supply as rotary engines require rebuilds and survivors become rarer.
Supra MK4: $60,000-150,000+ for twin-turbo manuals. The 2JZ legend drives demand; Fast & Furious cultural impact maintains mainstream interest.
Vehicle A
Pros
- ✓ Lightweight and agile
- ✓ Unique rotary experience
- ✓ Perfect weight distribution
- ✓ Beautiful design
Cons
- ✗ Rotary maintenance demands
- ✗ Engine rebuild costs
- ✗ Lower tuning ceiling
- ✗ Poor fuel economy
Vehicle B
Pros
- ✓ Legendary 2JZ engine
- ✓ Unlimited tuning potential
- ✓ More practical GT nature
- ✓ Strong value appreciation
Cons
- ✗ Heavy for a sports car
- ✗ Less agile handling
- ✗ Higher purchase price
- ✗ Common theft target
The Verdict
The Verdict
Choose the Mazda RX-7 FD if you:
- Want a pure, focused driving experience
- Appreciate unique rotary character
- Prioritize handling over straight-line speed
- Are committed to understanding rotary ownership
Choose the Toyota Supra MK4 if you:
- Want unlimited tuning potential
- Value GT comfort alongside performance
- Prefer conventional engine maintenance
- Seek the iconic status and investment potential
Our perspective: These cars serve different masters despite similar price points.
The RX-7 FD is for drivers who want an analog sports car experience and accept the rotary lifestyle. It rewards skill and involvement with a driving experience few modern cars can match.
The Supra MK4 is for those who want a legendary platform that can be everything from comfortable cruiser to 1,000hp street monster. It's more practical and more tuneable but less purely focused as a driver's car.
Neither choice is wrong. They're simply different expressions of Japanese automotive excellence.