1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1970 Subaru FF-1
To start off, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Subaru FF-1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Subaru FF-1 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 20 more horse power than 1970 Subaru FF-1. (80 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Subaru FF-1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda RX-3 weights approximately 124 kg more than 1970 Subaru FF-1. 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, 1970 Subaru FF-1, 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 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Subaru FF-1. (99 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Subaru FF-1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-3 | 1970 Subaru FF-1 | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | RX-3 | FF-1 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1267 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | boxer |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 726 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2430 mm |
