2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Colt
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Colt 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 (146 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Colt (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (135 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Colt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1996 Mitsubishi Colt | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Colt |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
