1976 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1992 Mazda 626
To start off, 1992 Mazda 626 is newer by 16 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mazda 626 (165 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mazda 626 weights approximately 434 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1992 Mazda 626, 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, 1992 Mazda 626 (221 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda RX-3 | 1992 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2620 mm |
