1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1992 Mercury Capri
To start off, 1992 Mercury Capri is newer by 14 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, both vehicles can yield 100 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mercury Capri weights approximately 230 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, 1992 Mercury Capri, 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mercury Capri. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mercury Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-3 | 1992 Mercury Capri | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | RX-3 | Capri |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2410 mm |
