1972 Holden Torana vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 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 1,349 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1972 Holden Torana. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 300 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, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Holden Torana. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Torana | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1256 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2650 mm |
