1971 Mazda RX-3 Sedan (S102A) Dimensions, Size & Specs

With a curb weight of just 885 kg (1952 lbs), the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Sedan is considered lightweight, which positively influences its performance and agility. The lighter weight helps in quicker acceleration and improved fuel efficiency, while also allowing for sharper and more responsive handling. This weight advantage is crucial especially for a rotary-engine car, enhancing the overall driving experience without excessive strain on the powertrain.

The 1971 Mazda RX-3 Sedan offers a ground clearance of 165 mm (6.5 inches). This moderate ride height provides a good balance between sporty handling and everyday usability. It’s high enough to handle typical road irregularities and mild obstacles without scraping the undercarriage but low enough to maintain stability and a low center of gravity, which is beneficial for cornering and overall vehicle dynamics.

Yes, the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Sedan fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Its compact dimensions—4065 mm (159.8 inches) in length and 1595 mm (62.8 inches) in width—ensure that it occupies less space compared to modern larger sedans and SUVs. Standard garages typically offer clearance well beyond the RX-3’s size, making parking and storage very convenient for most owners.

The 1971 Mazda RX-3 Sedan marked an evolution from previous Mazda compact models in terms of size and proportions. Compared to the earlier Mazda Grand Familia RX-2, the RX-3 was slightly more refined in dimensions, maintaining a compact yet more aerodynamic profile. While exact predecessor dimensions vary, the RX-3’s 4065 mm length and 1595 mm width indicate a focus on a sportier, more streamlined design that balanced everyday usability with enhanced performance.

In comparison to other compact sedans from the early 1970s, such as the Toyota Corolla and Datsun 510, the Mazda RX-3 Sedan is quite comparable in size. Its 4065 mm (159.8 inches) length is on par with these popular models, though the RX-3 is often noted for its lower height of 1375 mm (54.1 inches), giving it a sportier stance. Additionally, the RX-3’s lighter curb weight of 885 kg (1952 lbs) is often less than many contemporaries, enhancing its agility and driving dynamics.

While specific interior dimensions for the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Sedan are scarce, its compact exterior suggests a cozy yet functional cabin. The sedan configuration was designed to comfortably seat four to five passengers with adequate headroom and legroom for a car of its size. The relatively low height of 1375 mm (54.1 inches) may slightly limit headroom compared to taller sedans but contributes to a more engaging driving experience.

The compact size and lightweight construction (885 kg or 1952 lbs curb weight) of the RX-3 Sedan significantly benefit fuel economy and engine performance. The reduced mass means the rotary engine requires less power to move the vehicle, allowing for more efficient fuel consumption and brisk acceleration despite the car’s modest engine displacement. The car’s aerodynamic profile, aided by its relatively low height of 1375 mm (54.1 inches), also helps reduce air resistance for better highway efficiency.

Yes, the 1971 Mazda RX-3 Sedan is very well suited for daily urban commuting. Its compact length of 4065 mm (159.8 inches) and narrow width of 1595 mm (62.8 inches) make it easy to navigate through tight city streets and find parking spots. The ground clearance of 165 mm (6.5 inches) provides enough height to comfortably clear typical urban road obstacles, speed bumps, and potholes without difficulty, making it a practical choice for city drivers.

The Mazda RX-3 Sedan (S102A) played a pivotal role in Mazda's early 1970s lineup by showcasing the capabilities of the Wankel rotary engine in a practical yet sporty sedan format. Produced between 1971 and 1973, it was Mazda’s attempt to blend performance, efficiency, and daily usability. The RX-3 was praised for its lightweight build, agile handling, and the novelty of its rotary powertrain, which distinguished it from conventional piston-engine competitors. This model also helped establish Mazda's reputation for engineering innovation and sporty compact cars.