2004 Ford Focus vs. 1976 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 506 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1976 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
