1983 Alfa Romeo Sprint vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1983 Alfa Romeo Sprint is newer by 5 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 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Alfa Romeo Sprint (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Alfa Romeo Sprint should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Alfa Romeo Sprint weights approximately 65 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, 1983 Alfa Romeo Sprint, 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, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Alfa Romeo Sprint. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Alfa Romeo Sprint.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Alfa Romeo Sprint | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | Sprint | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
