1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 44 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 546 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, 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 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. 2008 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite has manual transmission. 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Mazda |
| Model | Sprite | 3 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
