2002 Ford Ka vs. 1973 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 284 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka, 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 Ka (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1973 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 65 L |
