1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 6,553 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino.
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, 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 Ford Gran Torino (403 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 1972 Ford Gran Torino has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Ford Gran Torino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Ford Gran Torino | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Gran Torino | 3 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6553 cc | 2261 cc |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 257 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 403 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 101.6 mm | 94 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |