1996 Mazda RX-01 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-01. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-01 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (217 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 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 1996 Mazda RX-01.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda RX-01. (220 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda RX-01.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-01 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-01 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2615 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| 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 | 55 L | 60 L |
