2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (77 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Mazda 3 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make Mazda Volkswagen
Model 3 Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 2003 1957
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1598 cc 1192 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 104 HP 30 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 3400 RPM
Torque 148 Nm 77 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1140 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2430 mm