2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Toyota Corona
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Corona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Corona would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Corona. (68 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Corona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1981 Toyota Corona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Toyota Corona 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 1981 Toyota Corona. 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 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Corona. (117 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Corona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1981 Toyota Corona | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Corona |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2530 mm |
