1973 Volkswagen SP2 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen SP2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen SP2 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen SP2. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen SP2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen SP2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen SP2. (120 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen SP2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen SP2 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | SP2 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1679 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2639 mm |
