2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Toyota Corona
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Corona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Corona would be higher. At 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Toyota Corona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Corona. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Corona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1978 Toyota Corona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Toyota Corona 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 1978 Toyota Corona. 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, both vehicles can yield 145 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1978 Toyota Corona | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Corona |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
