1978 Ford Fiesta vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1978 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Fiesta.
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, 2012 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Ford Fiesta | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Fiesta | 3 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 956 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 39 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 64 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |