1981 Porsche 944 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Porsche 944 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 1981 Porsche 944 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 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Porsche 944 (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Porsche 944 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Porsche 944 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Porsche | Mazda |
| Model | 944 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2639 mm |
