1987 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,598 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1987 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 417 kg more than 1987 Ford Fiesta. 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 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 765 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2650 mm |
