2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 650 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Ford Taurus, 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 Taurus (250 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |
