1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2003 Mazda 6

To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (145 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 771 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1964 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 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6, 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, 2003 Mazda 6 (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.

Compare all specifications:

1964 Austin-Healey Sprite 2003 Mazda 6
Make Austin-Healey Mazda
Model Sprite 6
Year Released 1964 2003
Body Type Roadster Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1098 cc 1989 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 145 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 3500 RPM
Torque 84 Nm 310 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 64.6 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.7 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 18.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 714 kg 1485 kg
Vehicle Length 3470 mm 4690 mm
Vehicle Width 1350 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1270 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2040 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 27 L 64 L