1971 Ford Mustang vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 5,752 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Mustang (330 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Ford Mustang weights approximately 195 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Ford Mustang 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 1971 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1971 Ford Mustang (503 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1971 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Mustang | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | 3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5752 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 503 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
