1985 Nissan Micra vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1985 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1985 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Nissan Micra. 2009 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1985 Nissan Micra has manual transmission. 1985 Nissan Micra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Nissan Micra | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Micra | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 665 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
