2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1986 Pontiac 1000
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac 1000 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac 1000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1986 Pontiac 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Pontiac 1000 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 1986 Pontiac 1000. 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 (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Pontiac 1000. (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Pontiac 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1986 Pontiac 1000 | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 3 | 1000 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2400 mm |
