1981 Toyota Carina vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 3 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1981 Toyota Carina.
Because 1981 Toyota Carina 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 Toyota Carina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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. 2010 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Toyota Carina has manual transmission. 1981 Toyota Carina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Toyota Carina | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Toyota | Mazda |
| Model | Carina | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 148 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2639 mm |
