1977 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2004 Mazda 6
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 27 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (144 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1977 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 558 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, 2004 Mazda 6, 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, 2004 Mazda 6 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 6 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 | 2004 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1964 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 64 L |
