2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,962 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 205 kg more than 1974 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
