1978 Lancia Gamma 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 Lancia Gamma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Gamma would be higher. At 2,259 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Gamma. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Gamma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 224 kg more than 1978 Lancia Gamma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Gamma. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Gamma.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Gamma | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Gamma | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2259 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
