1987 Lada Samara vs. 1977 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1987 Lada Samara is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1987 Lada Samara. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lada Samara weights approximately 73 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara, 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, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lada Samara. (119 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lada Samara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lada Samara | 1977 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Lada | Mazda |
| Model | Samara | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1458 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 65 L |
