1971 Ford Mustang vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 5,752 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Mustang (330 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 1971 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 Ford Mustang (503 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1971 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Mustang | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | 3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5752 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 503 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
