1982 Ford Telstar vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1982 Ford Telstar is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Ford Telstar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1982 Ford Telstar. (95 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Telstar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Telstar weights approximately 180 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Ford Telstar, 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, 1982 Ford Telstar (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Telstar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Telstar | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Telstar | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2320 mm |
