1976 Ford Fairlane vs. 2012 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1976 Ford Fairlane. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 511 kg more than 1976 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Ford Fairlane 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 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Fairlane. (328 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Fairlane | 2012 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fairlane | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3984 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 328 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1963 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5085 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2875 mm |
