1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,658 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 532 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 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 1955 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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, both vehicles can yield 228 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Mazda |
| Model | 100 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 60 L |
