2009 Ford Focus vs. 1975 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1975 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 512 kg more than 1975 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1975 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 1975 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Focus (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mazda RX-3. (136 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1975 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 65 L |
