1974 Honda Civic vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1974 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1974 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Honda Civic. (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Honda Civic | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Civic | 3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1169 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2650 mm |
