2002 Ford Fiesta vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2002 Ford Fiesta is newer by 24 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 1 more horse power than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (99 HP @ 6150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 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 265 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, 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, 2002 Ford Fiesta (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Ford Fiesta | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Fiesta | RX-3 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1963 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 99 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 135 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 850 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2320 mm |