2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1973 Mazda 818
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1973 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1973 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mazda 818 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 1973 Mazda 818. 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 (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1973 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 818 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2320 mm |
