2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 387 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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, 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass (381 Nm) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 3 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 103.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2960 mm |
