1976 Holden Torana 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 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Torana would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1976 Holden Torana. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1976 Holden Torana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Holden Torana 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 Holden Torana. 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 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Holden Torana. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Holden Torana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Torana | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Torana | 3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1256 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2650 mm |
