2008 Kia Sportage vs. 1976 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2008 Kia Sportage is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,974 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Sportage (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Sportage weights approximately 692 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage, 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, 2008 Kia Sportage (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sportage | 1976 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sportage | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1974 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 65 L |
