2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1995 Mazda RX-01
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda RX-01. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda RX-01 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1995 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda RX-01 (220 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1995 Mazda RX-01.
Because 1995 Mazda RX-01 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 1995 Mazda RX-01. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3, 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, 1995 Mazda RX-01 (216 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda RX-01 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1995 Mazda RX-01 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | RX-01 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
