1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1985 Proton Saloon
To start off, 1985 Proton Saloon 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 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1985 Proton Saloon. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Proton Saloon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Proton Saloon weights approximately 75 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 Proton Saloon, 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Proton Saloon. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Proton Saloon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-3 | 1985 Proton Saloon | |
| Make | Mazda | Proton |
| Model | RX-3 | Saloon |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 118 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 | 850 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2390 mm |
