2003 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Talbot Tagora
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Talbot Tagora. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Talbot Tagora would be higher. At 2,155 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Talbot Tagora is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Talbot Tagora. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Talbot Tagora. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Talbot Tagora weights approximately 15 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3.
Because 1981 Talbot Tagora 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 Talbot Tagora. 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 (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Talbot Tagora. (181 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Talbot Tagora.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 1981 Talbot Tagora | |
| Make | Mazda | Talbot |
| Model | 3 | Tagora |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2155 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 91.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
