2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1971 Riley 4
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Riley 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Riley 4 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1971 Riley 4. (67 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Riley 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 337 kg more than 1971 Riley 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Riley 4 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 Riley 4. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Riley 4. (121 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Riley 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1971 Riley 4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Riley |
| Model | 3 | 4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1622 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 76.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1148 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
