2001 Kia Rio vs. 1976 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2001 Kia Rio is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2001 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Kia Rio weights approximately 75 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Kia Rio, 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, 1976 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Kia Rio. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Kia Rio | 1976 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1342 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2320 mm |
