1979 Lada 1200 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lada 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lada 1200 would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1979 Lada 1200. (61 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Lada 1200.
Because 1979 Lada 1200 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 Lada 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lada 1200. (85 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lada 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lada 1200 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lada | Mazda |
| Model | 1200 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 55 L |
