2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1983 Nissan Silvia
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Silvia would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Silvia. (133 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Silvia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1983 Nissan Silvia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Nissan Silvia 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 1983 Nissan Silvia. 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 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Silvia. (179 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Silvia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1983 Nissan Silvia | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Silvia |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1809 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2440 mm |
