1974 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1957 Porsche 356
To start off, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,962 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 100 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Porsche 356 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
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, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Porsche 356. (121 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1974 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda RX-3 | 1957 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | RX-3 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1962 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 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 | 850 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
