1973 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2006 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2006 Mercury Mariner is newer by 33 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercury Mariner (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 719 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 2006 Mercury Mariner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mazda RX-3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercury Mariner will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercury Mariner (262 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercury Mariner 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 | 2006 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | RX-3 | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1571 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
