1972 Holden Torana 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 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Holden Torana would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Holden Torana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1972 Holden Torana. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1972 Holden Torana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Holden Torana 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 Holden Torana. 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Holden Torana. (131 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Holden Torana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Holden Torana | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Torana | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2610 mm |
