1989 Ford Probe vs. 1973 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1989 Ford Probe is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Probe (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 463 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe, 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, 1989 Ford Probe (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Probe | 1973 Mazda RX-3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Probe | RX-3 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1973 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1964 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 217 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 852 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2320 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |