1973 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 36 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 2,987 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1446 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-3 | R |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 2987 cc |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 2298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
