1961 Ford Zodiac 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 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Zodiac weights approximately 36 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1961 Ford Zodiac 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 Ford Zodiac. 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 Ford Zodiac (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1961 Ford Zodiac will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Zodiac | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Zodiac | 3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 1347 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
