2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1969 Simca 1301
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Simca 1301. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Simca 1301 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1969 Simca 1301. (68 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Simca 1301. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1969 Simca 1301. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Simca 1301 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 1969 Simca 1301. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Simca 1301. (124 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Simca 1301.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1969 Simca 1301 | |
| Make | Mazda | Simca |
| Model | 3 | 1301 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1475 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
