1974 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 39 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 530 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Mazda RX-3 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1974 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1962 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |