1997 Mazda Levante vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1997 Mazda Levante is newer by 19 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda Levante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda Levante (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda Levante should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda Levante weights approximately 410 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mazda Levante is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda RX-3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda Levante will offer significantly more control. 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 Mazda Levante (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda Levante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda Levante | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Levante | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2320 mm |
