2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Mazda 929
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,769 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 83 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1978 Mazda 929.
Because 1978 Mazda 929 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 1978 Mazda 929. 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, 1978 Mazda 929 (138 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 929 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1978 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| 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 | 1155 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
