2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 32 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 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (240 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (327 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3900 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
