1978 Mini MK IV vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 773 kg more than 1978 Mini MK IV. 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mini MK IV | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mini | Mazda |
| Model | MK IV | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2640 mm |
