1981 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1981 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Mustang weights approximately 155 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 1981 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Mustang | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Mustang | 3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2294 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 87 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 187 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2650 mm |