2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1971 Opel Commodore
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Commodore would be higher. At 2,490 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Opel Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Opel Commodore (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Opel Commodore should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Opel Commodore weights approximately 15 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 Opel Commodore 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 Opel Commodore. 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 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Commodore. (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1971 Opel Commodore | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 2490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
