2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1982 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1982 Toyota Starlet. (57 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1982 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Toyota Starlet 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 1982 Toyota Starlet. 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 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Toyota Starlet. (91 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1982 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Starlet |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2310 mm |
