1997 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1966 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP) has 53 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 84 kg more than 1966 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Volkswagen 1600 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 1966 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Mazda MX-3 (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-3 | 1966 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-3 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 40 L |
