1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 280 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
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, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-3 | 1985 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | RX-3 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2630 mm |
