2007 Mazda 6 vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 6 is newer by 33 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 2,968 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 6 (212 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mazda RX-3 weights approximately 34 kg more than 2007 Mazda 6.
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, 2007 Mazda 6, 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, 2007 Mazda 6 (267 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 6 | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2968 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 816 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |
