1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1968 Mini MK II
To start off, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mini MK II. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mini MK II would be higher. At 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1968 Mini MK II. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Mini MK II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda RX-3 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1968 Mini MK II. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Mini MK II, 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, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mini MK II. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mini MK II.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda RX-3 | 1968 Mini MK II | |
Make | Mazda | Mini |
Model | RX-3 | MK II |
Year Released | 1978 | 1968 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1963 cc | 848 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 61 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2040 mm |