2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1992 Mazda AZ-1
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda AZ-1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda AZ-1 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1992 Mazda AZ-1. (63 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda AZ-1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1992 Mazda AZ-1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 Mazda AZ-1 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 1992 Mazda AZ-1. 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 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda AZ-1. (88 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda AZ-1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1992 Mazda AZ-1 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | AZ-1 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 657 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 66 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2240 mm |
