2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1982 Nissan Prairie
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Nissan Prairie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Nissan Prairie 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 167 more horse power than 1982 Nissan Prairie. (89 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Nissan Prairie. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1982 Nissan Prairie. 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Nissan Prairie. (150 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Nissan Prairie.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1982 Nissan Prairie | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Prairie |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
