1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,962 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mazda RX-3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1961 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A 40 | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | A 40 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
