1978 Isuzu Florian vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Isuzu Florian. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Isuzu Florian would be higher. At 1,817 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Isuzu Florian is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Isuzu Florian. (98 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Isuzu Florian. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1978 Isuzu Florian. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Isuzu Florian 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 Isuzu Florian. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Isuzu Florian (147 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Isuzu Florian will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Isuzu Florian | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Isuzu | Mazda |
| Model | Florian | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1817 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
