2005 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 27 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Focus (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 310 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, 2005 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, 2005 Ford Focus (170 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 65 L |
