1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (102 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 104 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (167 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Cosmo | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
