1961 AC Ace vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 AC Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 AC Ace would be higher. At 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 AC Ace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1961 AC Ace. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1961 AC Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 379 kg more than 1961 AC Ace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 AC Ace 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 1961 AC Ace. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1961 AC Ace (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1961 AC Ace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 AC Ace | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | AC | Mazda |
| Model | Ace | 3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 1598 cc |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 813 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
