1980 Ford Falcon vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ford Falcon (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Ford Falcon weights approximately 110 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Ford Falcon 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 1980 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1980 Ford Falcon (228 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Falcon | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Falcon | 3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3273 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2650 mm |
