1976 Datsun Violet vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun Violet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun Violet 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) has 23 more horse power than 1976 Datsun Violet. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun Violet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1976 Datsun Violet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Datsun Violet 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 1976 Datsun Violet. 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 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun Violet. (120 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun Violet. 2005 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1976 Datsun Violet has manual transmission. 1976 Datsun Violet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Datsun Violet | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | Violet | 3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.7 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
