2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1986 Nissan Leopard
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Nissan Leopard 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 50 more horse power than 1986 Nissan Leopard. (98 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Nissan Leopard weights approximately 75 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 1986 Nissan Leopard 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 1986 Nissan Leopard. 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Nissan Leopard. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Nissan Leopard.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1986 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Leopard |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
