1976 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1976 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (65 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 65 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 83.6 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 | 715 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
