2003 Holden Zafira vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2003 Holden Zafira is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Zafira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Zafira (146 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Zafira should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Zafira weights approximately 610 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Holden Zafira, 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, 2003 Holden Zafira (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Zafira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Zafira | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Zafira | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2320 mm |
