2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Plymouth Horizon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1981 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | 3 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
