2003 Fiat Punto vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2003 Fiat Punto is newer by 25 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 6 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Punto. (94 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Punto weights approximately 116 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, 2003 Fiat Punto, 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, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Punto. (128 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Punto | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Punto | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 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 | 966 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 65 L |
