2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1979 Plymouth Volare
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Plymouth Volare. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Plymouth Volare would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Plymouth Volare is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1979 Plymouth Volare. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Plymouth Volare. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Plymouth Volare weights approximately 205 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1979 Plymouth Volare 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 1979 Plymouth Volare. 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Plymouth Volare. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Plymouth Volare.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1979 Plymouth Volare | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | 3 | Volare |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
