1978 Dodge Aspen vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 62 kg more than 1978 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Dodge Aspen 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 1978 Dodge Aspen. 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, 1978 Dodge Aspen (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Dodge Aspen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Dodge Aspen | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Aspen | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2650 mm |
