1972 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 3 weights approximately 253 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mazda RX-4 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2010 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mazda RX-4 | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-4 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2639 mm |
