2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1971 Mazda 818
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,349 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1971 Mazda 818. (80 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1971 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mazda 818 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 1971 Mazda 818. 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, both vehicles can yield 124 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:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1971 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 818 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2290 mm |
