2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1977 Mazda 818
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 818 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 80 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1977 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 818 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 1977 Mazda 818. 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1977 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 818 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2320 mm |
