2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1976 Porsche 912
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Porsche 912. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Porsche 912 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1976 Porsche 912. (86 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Porsche 912. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 189 kg more than 1976 Porsche 912. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Porsche 912 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 1976 Porsche 912. 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 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Porsche 912. (136 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Porsche 912.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1976 Porsche 912 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | 3 | 912 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2220 mm |
