2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Toyota Tercel
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Tercel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Tercel would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Tercel. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Tercel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1978 Toyota Tercel. 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Tercel. (102 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Tercel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1978 Toyota Tercel | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Tercel |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1452 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2510 mm |
