1972 Holden Torana 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 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Holden Torana would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1972 Holden Torana. (55 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 573 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, 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Holden Torana. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Holden Torana. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1972 Holden Torana has manual transmission. 1972 Holden Torana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Holden Torana | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Torana | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1159 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2639 mm |
