1981 Honda Ballade vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1981 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 335 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.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Honda Ballade, 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | Ballade | 3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1334 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 67 HP | 105 HP |
Torque | 108 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2650 mm |