1997 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1973 Nissan Bluebird
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Bluebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Bluebird 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 @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 104 kg more than 1973 Nissan Bluebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Nissan Bluebird 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 Nissan Bluebird. 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, both vehicles can yield 135 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-3 | 1973 Nissan Bluebird | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-3 | Bluebird |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
