2007 Mazda 3 vs. 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. (150 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus 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 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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 203 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:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus | |
| Make | Mazda | Talbot |
| Model | 3 | Sunbeam-Lotus |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
