2004 Ford Focus vs. 1977 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (144 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1977 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 330 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 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 (202 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1977 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 65 L |
