2009 Kia Rio vs. 1975 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio 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 19 more horse power than 2009 Kia Rio. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 294 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 Kia Rio, 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, 1975 Mazda RX-3 (136 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rio. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rio | 1975 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Rio | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 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 | 1144 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
