1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2005 Ford Focus
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 27 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 363 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, 2005 Ford Focus, 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, 2005 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Focus 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 | 2005 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | RX-3 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1213 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
