1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1996 Mazda MPV
To start off, 1996 Mazda MPV is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda MPV (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MPV weights approximately 661 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mazda MPV 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 1996 Mazda MPV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1996 Mazda MPV (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 1996 Mazda MPV | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-3 | MPV |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2850 mm |
