2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Toyota Crown
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Crown. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Crown 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 46 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Crown. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Crown. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Toyota Crown weights approximately 18 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1978 Toyota Crown 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 Toyota Crown. 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Crown. (157 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Crown. 1978 Toyota Crown has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Toyota Crown will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1978 Toyota Crown | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Crown |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
