1972 Chrysler Centura vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1972 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1972 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Chrysler Centura 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 Chrysler Centura. 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 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chrysler Centura.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Chrysler Centura | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
Model | Centura | 3 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1981 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2639 mm |