1968 AMC AMX vs. 2012 Mazda 3

To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 AMC AMX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 AMC AMX would be higher. At 6,386 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 AMC AMX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 AMC AMX (315 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 AMC AMX should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 6 kg more than 1968 AMC AMX.

Because 1968 AMC AMX 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 1968 AMC AMX. 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, 1968 AMC AMX (576 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1968 AMC AMX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1968 AMC AMX has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1968 AMC AMX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1968 AMC AMX 2012 Mazda 3
Make AMC Mazda
Model AMX 3
Year Released 1968 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6386 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 315 HP 167 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 576 Nm 228 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1377 kg 1383 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4506 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1755 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1471 mm
Wheelbase Size 2470 mm 2639 mm