2008 Mazda 5 vs. 1978 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2008 Mazda 5 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 5 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 5 weights approximately 730 kg more than 1978 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 5 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (102 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 5 | 1978 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 5 | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2400 mm |
