1987 Ford Probe vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Probe weights approximately 19 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
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, 2008 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Probe | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Probe | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2183 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2650 mm |
