1978 Subaru Rex vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 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 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1978 Subaru Rex. (29 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Subaru Rex. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 848 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, 2013 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Subaru Rex. (42 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Subaru | Mazda |
| Model | Rex | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 544 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2640 mm |
