1997 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 3 weights approximately 304 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2010 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-3 | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
