2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1983 Vauxhall Carlton

To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Vauxhall Carlton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Vauxhall Carlton 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 59 more horse power than 1983 Vauxhall Carlton. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Vauxhall Carlton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 179 kg more than 1983 Vauxhall Carlton. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 Vauxhall Carlton 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 1983 Vauxhall Carlton. 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 (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Vauxhall Carlton. (143 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Vauxhall Carlton.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mazda 3 1983 Vauxhall Carlton
Make Mazda Vauxhall
Model 3 Carlton
Year Released 2008 1983
Body Type Hatchback Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1999 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 184 Nm 143 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1329 kg 1150 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4690 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2680 mm