1970 Austin 3 vs. 1996 Mazda 121
To start off, 1996 Mazda 121 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Austin 3 (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 121. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Austin 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Austin 3 weights approximately 426 kg more than 1996 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Austin 3 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 1970 Austin 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 121, 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, 1970 Austin 3 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1970 Austin 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Austin 3 | 1996 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1064 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2460 mm |
