1998 Ford Focus vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,962 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 268 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 1998 Ford Focus (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Focus | RX-3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1962 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1118 kg | 850 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2320 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |