1972 Honda Z vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Honda Z would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1972 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1972 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Honda Z | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Z | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2650 mm |
