2009 Mazda 6 vs. 1974 Rover 3.5
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1974 Rover 3.5. (149 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1974 Rover 3.5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 88 kg more than 2009 Mazda 6.
Because 1974 Rover 3.5 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 1974 Rover 3.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6, 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, 1974 Rover 3.5 (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 6. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Rover 3.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 6. 1974 Rover 3.5 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Rover 3.5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 1974 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | 6 | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2486 cc | 3532 cc |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1638 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2820 mm |
