1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2012 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 34 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 1113 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, 2012 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-9 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 | 2012 Mazda CX-9 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-3 | CX-9 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1963 cc | 3700 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 273 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1963 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5085 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1935 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1727 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2875 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 76 L |