1977 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante
To start off, 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante (238 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1977 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante weights approximately 698 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante, 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda RX-3 | 1997 Mitsubishi Diamante | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-3 | Diamante |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2730 mm |
