1973 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 1232 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-3 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 78 L |
