2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry 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 89 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 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 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2400 mm |
