1971 Dodge Dart vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Dart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Dart would be higher. At 3,249 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Dodge Dart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Dodge Dart (100 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Dodge Dart should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Dodge Dart weights approximately 269 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Dodge Dart 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 Dodge Dart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Dodge Dart (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Dodge Dart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Dodge Dart | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Dart | 3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3249 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2650 mm |
