1972 Ford Gran Torino vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 31 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, 2003 Mazda 6 (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (97 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 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 295 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Gran Torino | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Gran Torino | 6 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4095 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 64 L |
