1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2008 Fiat Croma
To start off, 2008 Fiat Croma is newer by 30 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, 2008 Fiat Croma (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Fiat Croma should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Fiat Croma weights approximately 680 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, 2008 Fiat Croma, 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, 2008 Fiat Croma (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat Croma 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 | 2008 Fiat Croma | |
| Make | Mazda | Fiat |
| Model | RX-3 | Croma |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
