1968 Isuzu 117 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Isuzu 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Isuzu 117 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1968 Isuzu 117. (115 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Isuzu 117. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1968 Isuzu 117. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Isuzu 117 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 Isuzu 117. 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Isuzu 117. (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Isuzu 117.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Isuzu 117 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Isuzu | Mazda |
| Model | 117 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1818 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
