1971 Cadillac Fleetwood vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood would be higher. At 7,725 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood (345 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood 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 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood. 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, 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood (679 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 409 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood 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. 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Cadillac Fleetwood | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mazda |
| Model | Fleetwood | 3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7725 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 679 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5810 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3380 mm | 2639 mm |
