2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Mazda 929
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 929. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1978 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 929 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 1978 Mazda 929. 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, 1978 Mazda 929 (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 929 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1978 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 929 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
