2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1966 Triumph Vitesse
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Triumph Vitesse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Triumph Vitesse 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 78 more horse power than 1966 Triumph Vitesse. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1966 Triumph Vitesse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1966 Triumph Vitesse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Triumph Vitesse 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 Triumph Vitesse. 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Triumph Vitesse. (125 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Triumph Vitesse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1966 Triumph Vitesse | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | 3 | Vitesse |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
