1976 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 610 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. (57 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Polo. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1976 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1976 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Volkswagen Polo | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
Model | Polo | 3 |
Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 895 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 39 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 57 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |