2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1986 Vauxhall Carlton
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Vauxhall Carlton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 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 1986 Vauxhall Carlton. (89 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Vauxhall Carlton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 182 kg more than 1986 Vauxhall Carlton. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 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 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Vauxhall Carlton. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Vauxhall Carlton.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1986 Vauxhall Carlton | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | 3 | Carlton |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 | 183 Nm | 144 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 | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
