1961 Mazda R 360 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mazda R 360. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mazda R 360 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1961 Mazda R 360. (16 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mazda R 360. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 930 kg more than 1961 Mazda R 360. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Mazda R 360 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 Mazda R 360. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mazda R 360. (22 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mazda R 360.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mazda R 360 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | R 360 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 22 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 380 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2990 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
