1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1997 Mercury MC4
To start off, 1997 Mercury MC4 is newer by 19 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercury MC4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury MC4 (202 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury MC4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercury MC4 (387 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercury MC4 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 | 1997 Mercury MC4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | RX-3 | MC4 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 387 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
