1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (97 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 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 262 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1972 Ford Gran Torino has manual transmission. 1972 Ford Gran Torino will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Ford Gran Torino | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Gran Torino | 3 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4095 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 97 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5270 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 60 L |