1981 Ford Granada vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Granada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Granada would be higher. At 1,999 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Granada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1981 Ford Granada. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Granada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Granada weights approximately 206 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1981 Ford Granada 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 1981 Ford Granada. 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, 1981 Ford Granada (151 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Granada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Granada | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Granada | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 60.1 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
