1966 Porsche 912 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Porsche 912. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Porsche 912 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1966 Porsche 912. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1966 Porsche 912. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1966 Porsche 912. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Porsche 912 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 1966 Porsche 912. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Porsche 912. (133 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Porsche 912. 2009 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1966 Porsche 912 has manual transmission. 1966 Porsche 912 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Porsche 912 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Porsche | Mazda |
| Model | 912 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
