2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1972 Porsche 914
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Porsche 914. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Porsche 914 would be higher. At 1,679 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Porsche 914 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1972 Porsche 914. (79 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Porsche 914. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1972 Porsche 914. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Porsche 914 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 1972 Porsche 914. 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 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Porsche 914. (136 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Porsche 914.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1972 Porsche 914 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | 3 | 914 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1679 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
