2004 Fiat Punto vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2004 Fiat Punto is newer by 26 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 49 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Punto. (51 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Fiat Punto weights approximately 115 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, 2004 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, 2004 Fiat Punto (145 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm). This means 2004 Fiat Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Punto | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Punto | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1240 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
