1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (102 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (167 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Cosmo | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
