2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari weights approximately 590 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
Because 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari 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 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari. 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, 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari (319 Nm) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda 3 | 1978 Pontiac Grand Safari | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 3 | Grand Safari |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2260 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 319 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 1872 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2020 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2950 mm |