1967 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. (64 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 669 kg more than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1967 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 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite has manual transmission. 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1967 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Mazda |
Model | Sprite | 3 |
Year Released | 1967 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1275 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 98 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3490 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 60 L |