1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 2001 Mazda 6
To start off, 2001 Mazda 6 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 4,095 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda 6 (119 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 171 kg more than 2001 Mazda 6.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 Ford Gran Torino. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 6, 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, 2001 Mazda 6 (311 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Gran Torino.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 2001 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Gran Torino | 6 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4095 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 64 L |
