1981 Honda Ballade vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (104 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1981 Honda Ballade. 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Ballade | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Ballade | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1334 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2650 mm |
