2002 Ford Fiesta vs. 1977 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2002 Ford Fiesta is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 268 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Fiesta | 1977 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
