1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2002 Mazda 6
To start off, 2002 Mazda 6 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 2,262 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 6 (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 640 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Mazda 6 (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda RX-3 | 2002 Mazda 6 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-3 | 6 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1963 cc | 2262 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 207 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 64 L |