1986 Ford Meteor vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Meteor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Meteor would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Meteor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (113 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1986 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Meteor.
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, 2011 Mazda 3 (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Meteor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Meteor | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Meteor | 3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2639 mm |
