1982 Ford Mustang vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Ford Mustang (225 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Mustang weights approximately 217 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Mustang (407 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Mustang | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | 3 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1483 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2650 mm |
