1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2002 Lexus IS
To start off, 2002 Lexus IS is newer by 24 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 1,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 550 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.
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, 2002 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS 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 | 2002 Lexus IS | |
Make | Mazda | Lexus |
Model | RX-3 | IS |
Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 195 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |