1973 Buick Skylark vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1973 Buick Skylark. (150 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Buick Skylark weights approximately 120 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1973 Buick Skylark 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 1973 Buick Skylark. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Buick Skylark. (366 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Buick Skylark | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | Skylark | 3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5724 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
