1974 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2002 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2002 Smart ForFour is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,962 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2002 Smart ForFour. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Smart ForFour weights approximately 116 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Smart ForFour, 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, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart ForFour. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart ForFour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda RX-3 | 2002 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | RX-3 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1962 cc | 1124 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2510 mm |
