1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
