2003 Ford Fiesta vs. 1975 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2003 Ford Fiesta is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1975 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP) has 33 more horse power than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 270 kg more than 1975 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1975 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 1975 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1975 Mazda RX-3 (136 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1975 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Fiesta | 1975 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 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 | 1120 kg | 850 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 |
