1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 636 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite has manual transmission. 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1958 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Mazda |
Model | Sprite | 3 |
Year Released | 1958 | 2011 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 948 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 44 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 71 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |