1976 Datsun Violet vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1976 Datsun Violet. (62 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun Violet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 285 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, 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 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun Violet. (99 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun Violet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Datsun Violet | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | Violet | 3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4500 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 |
