1973 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2011 Mazda 2
To start off, 2011 Mazda 2 is newer by 38 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, 1973 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 2. (95 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 2 weights approximately 248 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-3.
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, 2011 Mazda 2, 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, 2011 Mazda 2 (205 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 2 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 | 2011 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-3 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 43 L |
