1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1990 Vauxhall Nova

To start off, 1990 Vauxhall Nova is newer by 12 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 @ 7000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1990 Vauxhall Nova. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda RX-3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1990 Vauxhall Nova. 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, 1990 Vauxhall Nova, 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Vauxhall Nova. (68 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Vauxhall Nova.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Mazda RX-3 1990 Vauxhall Nova
Make Mazda Vauxhall
Model RX-3 Nova
Year Released 1978 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1963 cc 993 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 44 HP
Engine RPM 7000 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 135 Nm 68 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 850 kg 740 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1600 mm 1550 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2320 mm 2350 mm


 

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