1978 Maserati Quattroporte 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 Maserati Quattroporte. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Maserati Quattroporte would be higher. At 4,136 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Maserati Quattroporte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Maserati Quattroporte (267 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Maserati Quattroporte should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Maserati Quattroporte weights approximately 600 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Maserati Quattroporte 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 Maserati Quattroporte. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Maserati Quattroporte has manual transmission. 1978 Maserati Quattroporte will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Maserati Quattroporte | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | Quattroporte | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4136 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 267 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2639 mm |
