2011 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (81 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (130 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda 3 | 1981 Nissan Stanza | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 3 | Stanza |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2480 mm |
