1972 Mazda 1000 vs. 2008 Toyota Prius

To start off, 2008 Toyota Prius is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda 1000 would be higher. At 1,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Prius (76 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1972 Mazda 1000. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Prius weights approximately 620 kg more than 1972 Mazda 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 Mazda 1000 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 Mazda 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Prius, 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, 2008 Toyota Prius (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda 1000. (77 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Prius will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda 1000. 2008 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 1972 Mazda 1000 has manual transmission. 1972 Mazda 1000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1972 Mazda 1000 2008 Toyota Prius
Make Mazda Toyota
Model 1000 Prius
Year Released 1972 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 987 cc 1497 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 49 HP 76 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 77 Nm 111 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline / Electric Hybrid
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 710 kg 1330 kg
Vehicle Length 3800 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2270 mm 2710 mm