2004 Lexus SC vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2004 Lexus SC 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 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lexus SC (290 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lexus SC weights approximately 890 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lexus SC (447 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lexus SC | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | SC | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 65 L |
