1974 Honda Z 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 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Honda Z 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 130 more horse power than 1974 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 1040 kg more than 1974 Honda Z. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Honda Z | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Z | 3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 2260 cc |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2650 mm |
