2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Honda Accord
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,602 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (80 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1981 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1981 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | 3 | Accord |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
