2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1979 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda Cosmo 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 56 more horse power than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda Cosmo 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 1979 Mazda Cosmo. 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 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mazda Cosmo. 1979 Mazda Cosmo has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mazda Cosmo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1979 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
