1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 20 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 185 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 | 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-3 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
