1978 Subaru Rex vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1978 Subaru Rex. (29 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Subaru Rex. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 765 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Subaru Rex. (42 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Subaru Rex.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Subaru Rex | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Subaru | Mazda |
| Model | Rex | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 544 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2639 mm |
