1974 Mazda 929 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 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1974 Mazda 929. (83 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mazda 929 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 1974 Mazda 929 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 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda 929. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda 929 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 929 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1769 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
