1979 Daihatsu Delta vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Daihatsu Delta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Daihatsu Delta would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1979 Daihatsu Delta. (91 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Daihatsu Delta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1979 Daihatsu Delta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Daihatsu Delta 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 1979 Daihatsu Delta. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Daihatsu Delta. (147 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Daihatsu Delta. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Daihatsu Delta has manual transmission. 1979 Daihatsu Delta 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:
| 1979 Daihatsu Delta | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mazda |
| Model | Delta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1769 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2200 mm | 2639 mm |
