1978 Subaru Rex vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Subaru Rex. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Subaru Rex would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1978 Subaru Rex. (29 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Subaru Rex. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 650 kg more than 1978 Subaru Rex. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Subaru Rex 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 Subaru Rex. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Subaru Rex. (42 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Subaru Rex. 2005 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Subaru Rex has manual transmission. 1978 Subaru Rex will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Subaru Rex | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Subaru | Mazda |
| Model | Rex | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 544 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2680 mm |
