1997 Ford Contour vs. 1973 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 390 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour, 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, 1997 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 1973 Mazda RX-3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Contour | RX-3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1964 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 852 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2320 mm |