1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2005 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2005 Smart ForFour 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 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2005 Smart ForFour. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Smart ForFour weights approximately 120 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
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 Smart ForFour, 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, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart ForFour. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart ForFour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-3 | 2005 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | RX-3 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 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 | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 47 L |
