1973 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500
To start off, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is newer by 39 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 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 (550 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 450 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 weights approximately 948 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 (691 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 556 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 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 | 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | RX-3 | Shelby GT500 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 550 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 691 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1800 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
