1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 511 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
