1982 Ford Falcon vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,271 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1982 Ford Falcon. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Falcon weights approximately 135 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1982 Ford Falcon 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 1982 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1982 Ford Falcon (228 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Falcon | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Falcon | 3 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3271 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2650 mm |
