1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2011 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2011 Toyota Prius is newer by 33 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, 2011 Toyota Prius (134 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota Prius weights approximately 530 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, 2011 Toyota Prius, 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, 2011 Toyota Prius (142 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Prius 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 | 2011 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-3 | Prius |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1745 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
