2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1979 Renault 4
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1979 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1979 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1979 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | 4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 955 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
