1969 Mazda Luce vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Mazda Luce. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Mazda Luce would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1969 Mazda Luce. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Mazda Luce. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 3 weights approximately 333 kg more than 1969 Mazda Luce. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Mazda Luce 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 1969 Mazda Luce. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Mazda Luce. (118 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Mazda Luce.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Mazda Luce | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Luce | 3 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
