1980 Mazda 929 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1980 Mazda 929. (89 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 398 kg more than 1980 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mazda 929 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 1980 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda 929. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mazda 929 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 929 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2260 cc |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
