1982 Talbot Samba vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Talbot Samba. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Talbot Samba would be higher. At 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (104 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1982 Talbot Samba. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Talbot Samba.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Talbot Samba. (102 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Talbot Samba | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Talbot | Mazda |
| Model | Samba | 3 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1219 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3520 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
