1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2004 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 26 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 710 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, 2004 Opel Signum, 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, 2004 Opel Signum (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum 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 | 2004 Opel Signum | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | RX-3 | Signum |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 265 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |