2007 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. (75 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 458 kg more than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma 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 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. (117 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Sigma |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
