1978 Ford Mustang vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1978 Ford Mustang. (138 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1978 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Mustang. (197 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Ford Mustang | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Mustang | 3 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2300 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 197 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2639 mm |