1976 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 27 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, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Roadster weights approximately 210 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.
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, 2003 Mazda Roadster (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-3 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 48 L |
