1974 Ford Capri vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1974 Ford Capri. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1974 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Ford Capri 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 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (204 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Ford Capri. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Ford Capri | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Capri | 3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2260 cc |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
