1972 Buick GS vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,723 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Buick GS (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Buick GS should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Buick GS weights approximately 405 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Buick GS 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 1972 Buick GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1972 Buick GS (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Buick GS | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | GS | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5723 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 394 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
