1990 Ford Fiesta vs. 1976 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1990 Ford Fiesta is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Ford Fiesta (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 60 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1990 Ford Fiesta (183 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Fiesta | 1976 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 65 L |
