1972 Ford Mustang vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 5,753 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford Mustang (267 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 1972 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 Mustang (417 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Mustang | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5753 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 267 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 417 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |
