1971 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1971 Ford Falcon. (129 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Falcon.
Because 1971 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Falcon. (259 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Falcon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Falcon | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Falcon | 3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3273 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 259 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2639 mm |
