2012 Mazda 3 vs. 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. (75 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma 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 Mitsubishi Sigma. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma. (117 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mazda 3 | 1981 Mitsubishi Sigma | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 3 | Sigma |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2520 mm |
