1977 Holden GTS vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,139 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Holden GTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Holden GTS (158 HP @ 4550 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Holden GTS should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Holden GTS weights approximately 135 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Holden GTS 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 1977 Holden GTS. 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, 1977 Holden GTS (326 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Holden GTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2009 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1977 Holden GTS has manual transmission. 1977 Holden GTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Holden GTS | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | GTS | 3 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4139 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4550 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2650 mm |
