2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1971 Mazda 1000
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda 1000 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1971 Mazda 1000. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mazda 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 419 kg more than 1971 Mazda 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mazda 1000 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 1971 Mazda 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mazda 1000. (77 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mazda 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1971 Mazda 1000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 1000 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
