2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1970 Reliant Bug
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Reliant Bug. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Reliant Bug would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1970 Reliant Bug. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Reliant Bug. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1970 Reliant Bug. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Reliant Bug 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 1970 Reliant Bug. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (203 Nm) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Reliant Bug. (52 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Reliant Bug.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1970 Reliant Bug | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 3 | Bug |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 60.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1253 kg | 408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 2800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 23 L |
