1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1994 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 1994 Mitsubishi Magna is newer by 16 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 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mitsubishi Magna (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mitsubishi Magna should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 485 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. 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, 1994 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 1994 Mitsubishi Magna (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1994 Mitsubishi Magna 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 | 1994 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-3 | Magna |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2730 mm |
