1995 Mazda RX-01 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda RX-01. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda RX-01 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1995 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda RX-01 (220 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 283 kg more than 1995 Mazda RX-01.
Because 1995 Mazda RX-01 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 1995 Mazda RX-01. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda RX-01. (216 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda RX-01. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1995 Mazda RX-01 has manual transmission. 1995 Mazda RX-01 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda RX-01 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-01 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2614 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
