1983 Ford Fairlane vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fairlane. (131 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 298 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1983 Ford Fairlane 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 1983 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1983 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 1983 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fairlane | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fairlane | 3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2650 mm |
