2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1970 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 172 kg more than 1970 Datsun 240Z.
Because 1970 Datsun 240Z 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 1970 Datsun 240Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1970 Datsun 240Z (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1970 Datsun 240Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1970 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Datsun |
| Model | 3 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
