2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1966 Mitsubishi 500

To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mitsubishi 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mitsubishi 500 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1966 Mitsubishi 500. (23 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1966 Mitsubishi 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 1020 kg more than 1966 Mitsubishi 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1966 Mitsubishi 500 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 1966 Mitsubishi 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mitsubishi 500. (34 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mitsubishi 500.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mazda 3 1966 Mitsubishi 500
Make Mazda Mitsubishi
Model 3 500
Year Released 2009 1966
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1999 cc 594 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 23 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 183 Nm 34 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1550 kg 530 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 3170 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1400 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2070 mm