1968 Datsun 1800 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Datsun 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Datsun 1800 would be higher. At 1,816 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Datsun 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1968 Datsun 1800. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Datsun 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 219 kg more than 1968 Datsun 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Datsun 1800 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 Datsun 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Datsun 1800 (156 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1968 Datsun 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Datsun 1800 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 1800 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1816 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
