2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1973 Opel Manta
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Manta would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1973 Opel Manta. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1973 Opel Manta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Opel Manta 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 1973 Opel Manta. 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 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Manta. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1973 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Manta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1196 cc |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 61 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2440 mm |
