2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1985 Nissan 300 ZX
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. (171 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. 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 (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. (235 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Nissan 300 ZX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1985 Nissan 300 ZX | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | 300 ZX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 576 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
