1986 Fiat Croma vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1986 Fiat Croma is newer by 12 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Fiat Croma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Fiat Croma (154 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Croma should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Fiat Croma weights approximately 330 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1986 Fiat Croma, 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, 1986 Fiat Croma (235 Nm @ 2350 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Fiat Croma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Croma | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Croma | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2350 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2320 mm |
