1972 Ford Torino vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Torino would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1972 Ford Torino. (96 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Torino weights approximately 340 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3.
Because 1972 Ford 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 Torino. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Torino (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Torino | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Torino | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 55 L |
