1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 20 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 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 323 | RX-3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1963 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 850 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2320 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |