1986 Ford Mustang vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1986 Ford Mustang. (88 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Mustang weights approximately 65 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1986 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 1986 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1986 Ford Mustang (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Mustang | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | 3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2650 mm |
