1991 Ford Taurus vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1991 Ford Taurus is newer by 13 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 2,512 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1991 Ford Taurus. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Taurus weights approximately 550 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
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, 1991 Ford Taurus, 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, 1991 Ford Taurus (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Ford Taurus | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Taurus | RX-3 |
Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2512 cc | 1963 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 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 | 1400 kg | 850 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2320 mm |