1983 Nissan Micra vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Micra. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1983 Nissan Micra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Micra. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Nissan Micra | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Micra | 3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2639 mm |
