1973 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 413 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mazda RX-3 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 1973 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda RX-3 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
