1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 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), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 425 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Fiesta | 3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 181 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1640 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |