1998 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 309 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1302 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 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Mazda MX-3 (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-3 | 1973 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-3 | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1191 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
