1976 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1988 Toyota Carina
To start off, 1988 Toyota Carina is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1988 Toyota Carina. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Toyota Carina weights approximately 230 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Toyota Carina, 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, both vehicles can yield 135 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda RX-3 | 1988 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-3 | Carina |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2530 mm |
