1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 270 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (241 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-3 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1963 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 241 Nm | 135 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 850 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2320 mm |