2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1979 Nissan 260 ZX
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Nissan 260 ZX would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Nissan 260 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (146 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. (124 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Nissan 260 ZX weights approximately 35 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1979 Nissan 260 ZX 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 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. 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, 1979 Nissan 260 ZX (189 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (135 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Nissan 260 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1979 Nissan 260 ZX | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | 260 ZX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
