2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1973 Mazda 929
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 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1973 Mazda 929. (83 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mazda 929 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 1973 Mazda 929 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 929. 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 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda 929. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1973 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
