1974 Buick GS vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Buick GS (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Buick GS should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Buick GS weights approximately 247 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Buick GS 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 1974 Buick GS. 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, 1974 Buick GS (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1974 Buick GS has manual transmission. 1974 Buick GS 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:
| 1974 Buick GS | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | GS | 3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5724 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 394 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2639 mm |
