1982 Ford Meteor 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 Meteor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Meteor would be higher. At 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Ford Meteor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1982 Ford Meteor. (72 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Meteor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1982 Ford Meteor. 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Meteor. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Meteor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Meteor | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Meteor | 3 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1347 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 885 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2650 mm |
